New Book Chronicles the Rise of the Golden Greek

McFarland & Company has recently released Jim Londos: The Golden Greek of Professional Wrestling, a compelling biography that delves into the extraordinary life of a legendary athlete.

Authored by award-winning journalist Steven Johnson, the book recounts the inspiring journey of Jim Londos, a young Greek immigrant who transformed himself into a global wrestling sensation during the Great Depression. Arriving in the United States as a chubby 15-year-old, Londos harnessed his Old World work ethic and dramatic flair to captivate audiences worldwide.

As the world champion wrestler, Londos rubbed shoulders with presidents, prime ministers, and mayors. He revitalized the sport during a time of economic hardship and became a symbol of hope for ethnic, blue-collar, and female fans. His historic match in the ancient Olympic stadium in Athens, which drew a crowd of 90,000, cemented his legacy as a true icon.

Beyond a mere wrestling biography, The Golden Greek offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of professional wrestling in the 1920s and 1930s. It explores the societal and cultural factors that contributed to the sport's popularity and examines the challenges faced by immigrants in America during that era.

Former world champion John "JBL" Layfield, a prominent figure in the WWE, has praised Londos as the greatest wrestler of all time. Layfield's foreword to the book highlights Londos' enduring impact on the sport.

The Golden Greek is a must-read for wrestling fans, history buffs, and anyone interested in the American Dream.

To Purchase