Danny Hodge’s list of accomplishments is remarkable. His amateur wrestling career does not include a silver medal at the 1952 Olympic Games and three NCAA championships in the 177 pound weight category. The collegiate equivalent of the Heisman football trophy was named after him. Hodge is the only amateur fighter to appear on the cover of Sports illustrated. He was also a Gold Gloves boxer and had professional success in the 1950s.
He went on to fight professionally, and was a fixator in the NWA territories throughout the 1960s, until he retired after a car accident in 1976. Among other titles, he was the NWA Junior Heavyweight champion seven times. Hodge is consecrated in several Halls of Fame and was awarded with the set of his work and the Lou Thesz award from the Cauliflower Alley Club.
With that kind of legacy, while many modern fans may not be aware of Hodge, he left a big impression on the business. With the news that he died yesterday (December 25, 2020) at the age of 88, the memorial and memories filled the web.
Legitimately one of the toughest guys in a boxing ring or wrestling match, Danny Hodge was a mentor to many and an innovative competitor. No apple had a chance in your hands !!
Rest in peace, Danny. https://t.co/SZyZXTSVYi– Triple H (@TripleH) December 26, 2020
AEW and the wrestling world mourn the death of legendary hall of fame fighter Danny Hodge, our thoughts are with his family, friends and fans. pic.twitter.com/IUyw9Z6ywm
– All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) December 26, 2020
I just saw the sad news from my friend@Fgbriscothat the legendary Danny Hodge passed away. Please take the time to research this incredible man and his career in wrestling and boxing. I always loved talking to him. My deepest condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/NToh6LuGnc
– William Regal (@RealKingRegal) December 26, 2020
Very sad to hear of Danny Hodge’s loss. I always loved spending time with him and sitting under his learning tree. Talking to him, you would never know everything he accomplished. Please do yourself a favor and search. Truly legendary. Rest in power. pic.twitter.com/aoBmcIYtmG
– Adam (Edge) Copeland (@EdgeRatedR) December 26, 2020
One of the best professional and amateur fighters of all time has passed away. Danny Hodge left to be with the Lord. Our loss, gain from heaven. RIP my friend. pic.twitter.com/hM99cY8fYE
– Ted DiBiase (@MDMTedDiBiase) December 26, 2020
I am very sad to hear the news today of Danny Hodge’s passing. I had the pleasure of meeting Danny once, and he was a true gentleman and someone for whom my grandfather Stu and my mentor Billy Robinson had a lot of respect. His handshake was also inspiring ♂️ RIP pic.twitter.com/BsdnvXmGyt
– Davey Boy Smith Jr. (@DBSmithjr) December 26, 2020
The wrestling world has lost a legitimate man and one of the most beautiful human beings I have had the honor of calling a friend. Danny Hodge made the count 3. My heart goes out to his wife Delores and family. Go with God, my friend, because you will be remembered with much love and respect ❤️
– Les Thatcher (@LesThatcher) December 26, 2020
RIP Danny Hodge. A great amateur and professional fighter who is an absolute credit to our business. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Hodge after a show in Oklahoma years ago and was fortunate enough to experience the infamous handshake. Godspeed sir.
– Frankie Kazarian (@FrankieKazarian) December 26, 2020
His strength in his hands was legendary. Smashing apples and even breaking pliers by squeezing them A rare breed that we will probably never see again. Do yourself a favor and read this. Then be sure to inform others about Danny Hodge. Thank you https://t.co/89euDce2Ti
– Danny Cage (@TheDannyCage) December 26, 2020
I never saw your style! so much fun! really enjoyed!
big smile, hug and strong handshake,i never forget your memory,
sad…
RIP Mr. Danny Hodge, pic.twitter.com/LKM5kk7oLu
– kikutaro (@kikutarosan) December 26, 2020
Our thoughts are with everyone missing Danny Hodge today.
RIP sir.