For decades, few families have personified pro wrestling as much as The Von Erichs. Fritz, the family patriarch, began his career in the Dallas market in the 1950s and became known for his The Iron Claw finishing maneuver. In the following decades, Fritz and his sons, Kevin, Kerry, David, Mike, and Chris, became synonymous with the Dallas area. Kevin and his two sons, Ross and Marshall, recently relocated back to the area to open a training school, and may begin promoting shows again soon.
The family’s story is notoriously filled with grim outside-of-the-ring moments, as many of the brothers struggled with substance abuse issues, and many found their lives ended tragically young for various reasons. The family’s story was the subject of a Dark Side Of The Ring episode called The Last Von Erich, featuring Kevin opening up for the first time in detail about his family’s past.
The Von Erichs will have their story told once more this year in the form of a major motion picture. The Iron Claw is directed by Sean Durkin and produced by the popular A24 production company. Some other films that A24 has produced include The Witch, Heredity, Lady Bird, and Moonlight. The retelling of The Von Erich family tale will feature an all-star cast, as well, including Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, Maura Tierney, Stanley Simons, Holt McCallany, and Lily James.
Earlier today, A24 released the official trailer for the film, which will be released on December 22. The official synopsis for it reads as follows:
The true story of the inseparable Von Erich brothers, who made history in the intensely competitive world of professional wrestling in the early 1980s. Through tragedy and triumph, under the shadow of their domineering father and coach, the brothers seek larger-than-life immortality on the biggest stage in sports.
Haus of Wrestling has partnered with Inside The Ropes to present An Afternoon With Kevin Nash And Sean Waltman on November 25 at Joe’s Live in Rosemont, IL, ten minutes from the All-State Arena. Tickets are now available at JoesLiveRosemont.com.