Inducted into the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2002 (charter
class).
Developed his devastating Headlock while at Louisville University. Through scientific study of anatomy and kinesiology, he was able to duplicate the intensity of force from a Heavyweight Boxer's best Knockout Punch; but applied through his Headlock (proper term, Side Chancery).
Born Robert Friedrich, June 30, 1891 in Nekoosa, Wisconsin; but took the Ring Name of Ed "Strangler" Lewis because a Newspaperman saw in him a resemblance to popular Wrestler of the 1880s and '90s, Evan "Strangler" Lewis.
Attended Louisville University on an Athletic Scholarship for Baseball; also, later playing Professional Minor League Baseball.