Giant Haystacks
| Martin Ruane | |
|---|---|
| File:Martin Ruane - Giant Haystacks.jpg | |
| Born | October 10, 1947 Camberwell Green, London, England |
| Died | Nov 29, 1998 |
| Professional wrestling career | |
| Ring name(s) | Giant Haystacks Loch Ness The Loch Ness Monster Luke McMasters |
| Billed height | 6 ft 11 in (211 cm) |
| Billed weight | 48 st\672 lb (305 kg) |
| Debut | 1967 |
Martin Ruane, better known as Giant Haystacks (October 10, 1947 - November 29, 1998) was a British wrestler. He was known for his huge size, standing 6 ft 10 in and weighing over 48 st (672 lb) at his heaviest. He had a long running feud between himself and fellow wrestler Big Daddy, resulting in high ratings every time the two fought each other. He also had a long feud with Kendo Nagasaki. Ruane was a deeply religious man and refused to fight on Sundays.
He began wrestling in 1967, becoming a household name during the 1970s and 1980s wrestling all over the world. In 1995 he appeared in the United States in WCW under the title The Loch Ness Monster as a member of Dungeon of Doom; however this was short-lived, and the tour was called off when Ruane was diagnosed with cancer and returned to the United Kingdom.
In addition to his wrestling career, he also appeared in the 1984 movie "Give My Regards To Broad Street", written by Sir Paul McCartney who was a noted fan of his.
He died on November 29, 1998 at the age of 51 following a two year battle with cancer.
Championships and accomplishments
- 1-time British Heavyweight Champion
- 1-time European Heavyweight Champion
Trivia
- Martin Ruane's family originated from County Mayo in Ireland and wanted him to become some sort of musician. They soon moved to Manchester, which was to remain Ruane's home.
- Martin Ruane's mountainous size caused him to be tormented as a child but he soon learnt to defend himself.
- Martin Ruane worked as a labourer, building motorways, and as a nightclub bouncer before a friend suggested he take up wrestling.
- Martin Ruane reputedly ate 3lbs of bacon, 12 eggs every morning to maintain his strength, and flew all over the World.
- Giant Haystacks wrestled in such places as England, USA, Canada, India and Zimbabwe among others.
- Giant Haystacks wrestled in Calgary for Stu Hart's Stampede as "Loch Ness" and was managed by J.R. Foley.
- Martin Ruane invested, unsuccessfully, in the motor trade and ran, more successfully, a debt-collection agency.