Maurice “Mad Dog” Vachon is not the first name that springs to mind when you think ‘Olympian.’ The bald-headed, gap-toothed uncle of Luna Vachon made his name throughout the 60s and 70s with his wild and woolly style.
Prior to his professional wrestling career, Vachon was an accomplished amateur wrestler. At just 18 years old Vachon came seventh in his weight category at the 1948 Olympics, competing for his native Canada.
That was clearly the year for future pro wrestlers to congregate at the Games. Also present alongside the future Karl Gotch and Mad Dog was Verne Gagne, an unused alternate for the United States team.
Vachon would go on to a storied life in pro wrestling, winning championships across various territories and later entering multiple Hall of Fames.
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