Leading female wrestler in the 1940s and 1950s labeled "The Tigress"
for her fierce nature and moxie.
Daughter of L.A. professional wrestler Nick Bernardi who initially
brought Maria to his training sessions. She began professionally
competing at age 12 in Jacksonville, Florida (successfully bypassing
the laws).
Belonged to the famous retired wrestler group the "Cauliflower Alley
Club" and served as its secretary for three decades. Actor and former
wrestler Mike Mazurki was the founder and Maria was the first woman to ever
receive an award from the club in 1985.
Won her first title (Italian Lightweight) in 1948. Won the World's
Lightweight Women's championship in 1952 and continued to defend her
belt until retiring in 1963.