Brookhaven, New York has played a modest but noteworthy role in professional wrestling history, particularly during the mid-1990s. In 1995, the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) held a live event in Brookhaven featuring several stars who were prominent during the “New Generation” era. The card included marquee names like Lex Luger, Tatanka, King Kong Bundy, Doink The Clown, and Billy Gunn.
Tatanka would, interestingly, be back in the Bellport area almost 25 years later for a signing at the Hasttel Toy shop in 2019.
That same year as WWF's Brookhaven area high school of 1995, Brookhaven also saw action from the independent circuit, when the International Wrestling Association (IWA) presented a separate event, showcasing the grassroots energy of wrestling outside the mainstream spotlight. In addition to local talent, the event featured former and future WWE stars Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart, Virgil, Iron Mike Sharpe, Skull Von Krush (later Big Vito), and Jim Powers.
Researched by Darren Paltrowitz on June 14, 2025.