In sad news, popular X account @BookProWrestlers has reported that WWE legend Ken Patera is recovering after suffering a broken C1 vertebra in a frightening fall at the gym. The former Olympian and strongman competitor had been making excellent progress following back surgery two and a half years ago and was again regularly training. Now in his 80s, the trailblazing star remains under medical care, with no further updates released on his condition.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with wrestling legend Ken Patera after he suffered a fall at the gym that resulted in a broken C1 vertebra. After working so hard to recover from major back surgery, returning to the gym, and making tremendous progress with his health, this is especially difficult news. Ken has overcome incredible challenges throughout his life. We’re hoping that same strength carries him through this one.” – x.com/BookProWrestler
Patera made his professional wrestling debut in 1972 with the AWA under Verne Gagne’s guidance. From there, he quickly rose as a dominant powerhouse heel, capturing the AWA World Tag Team Titles twice, first with Jerry Blackwell and later with Brad Rheingans. He later joined WWE (then WWF), where he worked alongside stars such as Tony Atlas, Bob Backlund, and Hulk Hogan, with arguably the highlight of his career coming in 1980 when he became the second-ever Intercontinental Champion.
