Montauk, New York -- known more for its scenic beaches and artistic allure than body slams -- nonetheless holds a curious place in professional wrestling history through its connection to legendary pop artist Andy Warhol. Warhol, a part-time Montauk resident, made a surprise cameo during the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985, symbolizing the WWF’s (now WWE) deliberate effort to blend wrestling with mainstream celebrity and pop culture. Though his appearance was brief and unscripted, Warhol's presence alongside stars like Hulk Hogan, Mr. T, and Cyndi Lauper helped solidify WrestleMania I as a spectacle that transcended the ring.
Decades later, Montauk returned to the wrestling conversation in the build-up to WrestleMania 38, when Jackass star and celebrity WWE participant Johnny Knoxville mocked his rival Sami Zayn by comparing him to infamous fraudster and Montauk resident Bernie Madoff. The tongue-in-cheek jab added a surreal, localized twist to their feud, blending satire, celebrity scandal, and wrestling drama.
Researched by Darren Paltrowitz on June 18, 2025.