Big Van Vader

Leon Allen White, born on May 14, 1955, and better known by his ring names Big Van Vader or simply Vader, was a remarkable figure in the world of professional wrestling and American football. His career spanned several decades, during which he became a household name, performing for prestigious organizations such as New Japan Pro-Wrestling, World Championship Wrestling, and the World Wrestling Federation.

Vader was not just a formidable presence in the ring; he was also a pioneer of aerial maneuvers, showcasing his athleticism with a diving moonsault that earned the title of 'Best Wrestling Maneuver' in 1993 from Wrestling Observer Newsletter readers. His impressive accolades include being a twelve-time world champion, having held titles across various promotions, including the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and the WCW World Heavyweight Championship.

In 1989, Vader made history by simultaneously holding the IWGP title in Japan, the CWA title in Austria, and the UWA title in Mexico. His contributions to wrestling were recognized with his induction into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame in 1996 and the WWE Hall of Fame in 2022. Vader's legacy continues to influence aspiring wrestlers and entertain fans worldwide.

Beyond the ring, White's life and career were explored in the Canadian docuseries Dark Side of the Ring, highlighting the complexities of his journey. He passed away on June 18, 2018, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest super-heavyweight professional wrestlers of all time.