Ken Patera, a former professional wrestler for the WWF (now WWE) back in the 70s, has reportedly suffered a broken neck. The incident was caused by a fall while attending a gym. "Book Pro Wrestlers" shared the news of Ken's injury and the damage he sustained with a post on Facebook.
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"We're sending our thoughts and prayers to wrestling legend Ken Patera," the post said. "Ken recently suffered a fall at the gym that resulted in a broken C1. The news is especially difficult because Ken had fought so hard to get back on his feet after major back surgery about two and a half years ago. Friends say he had made remarkable progress, returned to the gym, and lost a significant amount of weight as he worked to improve his health."
The post continued by praising Patera's determination and toughness.
"Anyone who has followed Ken Patera's life knows determination has always been one of his defining traits. It's what made him one of the toughest competitors of his generation, and it's the same strength we hope carries him through this latest challenge," the post continued. "Everyone at Book Pro Wrestlers is keeping Ken in our thoughts. Please join us in wishing him strength, healing, and a full recovery."
Ken Patera Has Enjoyed Sizeable Success Throughout His Life
Before turning his attention to the world of professional wrestling, Patera was an Olympian, competing in the shot put back in the 1960s. He then became an Olympic powerlifter in the early 70s before ultimately making the leap into wrestling.
Patera began his wrestling career with the American Wrestling Association, sspending two years with them between 1972 and 1974. Patera then made his WWF debut in 1976, spending two years with the company before leaving for Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling in 1978.
Some spells in Japan and other promotions then followed. Patera then spent time with each of his former employers over the next decade or more. At the time, professional wrestling was split into territories and wasn't as condensed as it is now.
Hopefully, Patera's competitive history will play a role in him making a full recovery from what is undoubtedly a brutal injury.
