From a pioneering career in professional wrestling to becoming a trailblazer for women in the sport, Johnnie Mae Young’s legacy is one of remarkable endurance and groundbreaking achievements. At 82, her passion for wrestling and dedication to mentoring the next generation continue to inspire.
Johnnie Mae Young, a Sand Springs High School graduate of 1941, became one of America’s youngest professional wrestlers at just 17. Known as “The Great Mae Young,” she remains an iconic figure in the wrestling world, demonstrating that retirement is far from her mind.
Even at 82, Mae Young maintains an impressive routine, working out at least two hours each day and traveling across the country to appear at wrestling events before live audiences. She earned the title of US Champion Lady Wrestler, defending her crown numerous times over her storied career.
In 2004, Mae Young was inducted into the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and honored by the Sand Springs Museum. She was also a guest on Jay Leno’s “Tonight Show,” where she humorously reminded him of her Sand Springs roots during his lengthy introduction.
Mae Young has paved the way for women in the male-dominated wrestling world and remains under contract with Vince McMahon and WWF. She operates a wrestling school in Columbia, SC, and continues to work tirelessly to promote and encourage young female wrestlers, leaving an enduring impact on the sport she loves.