News and Notes
General Skandor Akbar Passes Away
By James Guttman
Aug 20, 2010 - 7:52 AM

It saddens me to report that legendary wrestling manager and two time ClubWWI guest General Skandor Akbar has passed away at the age of 75.

As a kid watching wrestling in New York, Akbar was one of the names from across the country that I would rush home to see on ESPN each day.   An evil cigar chomping Arab antagonist, the General amazes me at how he was able to play such a hated gimmick without playing into stereotypes.   He was talented on the microphone and one of the most memorable figures I had ever seen in wrestling.   From his work in the GWF to the 100 or so top stars he managed through the years, Akbar was someone who was as much a part of Texas wrestling as Texas.

Skandor was one of the first guests I ever had on World Wrestling Insanity.   His interview was lost sometime between late 2005 and the opening of ClubWWI.com.   When I realized this, I called The General and he graciously returned to record a second.   For the duration of this website, whenever people asked about our past guests, I've always said, "All our guests are best known for their work with WWE, WCW, or TNA except Skandor Akbar…which is fine because he's freakin' awesome."

And he was.   A solid guy and a throwback to a time when the bad guy would try to scare you at ringside, Skandar remained a local celebrity for years.   He loved signing autographs and talking about the business with those that asked.   I hope more wrestlers take his lead and handle themselves with the class and dignity that The General always did.  

From myself personally and all of us here at World Wrestling Insanity, we wish our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.   Thank you for all you've done, General.