Brian Mackney Passes Away at 77
Canadian wrestling legend "Silent" Brian Mackney has died at the age of 77. Despite being mute, Mackney defied the odds and had a 26-year career in professional wrestling.
Career Highlights
- Trained by the Love Brother Johnny Evans.
- Known as enhancement talent in Canada for Jack and Frank Tunney’s Maple Leaf Wrestling and the WWF.
- Wrestled in New Japan Pro Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling.
- First deaf wrestler employed by WWE.
- Awarded a lifetime achievement honor by Great White North Wrestling in 2019.
Tribute from Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling
MAPLE LEAF PRO is saddened to hear of the passing today of “Silent” Brian Mackney, a Maple Leaf Wrestling alumni and legend in Toronto. Mackney was more than a journeyman, who not only won the hearts of Toronto fans in the 1970s and 1980s, but gained worldwide attention competing in Japan with New Japan Pro Wrestling and All-Japan Pro Wrestling. He also worked various NWA territories, including Mid-Atlantic. When WWF took over Toronto, Silent Brian continued wrestling for Vince McMahon for several years. Remarkably, Brian Mackney accomplished all of this as a deaf person, showing that his hearing impairment did not hold him back – he rose above it all and achieved what many do not.
Legacy
Though never a main event superstar, Brian Mackney earned respect and recognition for his determination and skill, particularly in Canadian wrestling circuits.
Author's summary: Brian Mackney’s remarkable 26-year wrestling career exemplified resilience, breaking barriers as the first deaf WWE wrestler and earning widespread respect in Canada and Japan.