Births on January 19

Pat Patterson, Canadian wrestler, trainer, and referee

Pat Patterson: A Pillar of Professional Wrestling's Evolution and Innovation

Pat Patterson, born Pierre Clermont on January 19, 1941, and passing away on December 2, 2020, was a profoundly influential Canadian–American figure in professional wrestling. Renowned for his multifaceted contributions to the premier wrestling promotion, WWE (formerly the World Wrestling Federation, WWF), Patterson left an indelible mark, transitioning seamlessly from a trailblazing in-ring competitor to a pivotal creative consultant and producer. His extensive tenure and profound impact solidified his status as one of the industry's most respected and innovative minds.

The Trailblazing Wrestler: WWE's First Intercontinental Champion

Patterson's journey in professional wrestling began in the ring, where he distinguished himself as a captivating performer. His legacy as a wrestler is particularly highlighted by a significant historical achievement: he is officially recognized by WWE as its first-ever Intercontinental Champion. This prestigious title, often considered the "workhorse championship" for highly skilled performers, was established in 1979 through a storyline that saw Patterson "unify" the fictional North American and South American Heavyweight Championships in a tournament purportedly held in Rio de Janeiro. This foundational moment helped define the championship's early prestige and laid the groundwork for countless future champions.

The Mastermind Behind the Royal Rumble

Beyond his in-ring accolades, Pat Patterson is perhaps best known for his unparalleled creative genius, most notably as the conceptualizer of the iconic Royal Rumble match. Conceived in 1988, this revolutionary match type transformed the landscape of professional wrestling. The ingenious concept involves a multi-competitor elimination match where participants enter the ring at timed intervals, striving to eliminate opponents by throwing them over the top rope, with the last man standing declared the victor. Patterson's innovative idea revitalized traditional battle royals, creating one of WWE's most anticipated, popular, and strategically complex annual events, which now serves as a key gateway to WrestleMania main events.

The Architect of WWE's Global Phenomenon

After retiring from active competition, Patterson seamlessly transitioned to an indispensable backstage role, becoming a creative consultant and producer for WWE. His influence during this period was immense, as famously articulated by veteran journalist Dave Meltzer, who described Patterson as "Vince McMahon's right-hand man" and "one of the chief architects of the WWE." In this capacity, Patterson played an integral role in shaping the company's creative direction, match psychology, and talent development. His keen eye for talent, ability to craft compelling storylines, and deep understanding of the nuances of in-ring performance were crucial in helping WWE evolve from a regional promotion into a global entertainment powerhouse. He was instrumental in planning match finishes, structuring segments, and mentoring countless Superstars, ensuring the quality and excitement of the televised product that captivated millions worldwide.

Late-Career Triumphs and Enduring Legacy

Patterson's enduring legacy and continued relevance within WWE were underscored by his induction into the prestigious WWF Hall of Fame as part of the class of 1996, recognizing his monumental contributions as both a performer and a backstage visionary. Even in his later years, his playful spirit and enduring connection to the company remained evident. In 2019, at the remarkable age of 78, Pat Patterson made history once more by winning the WWE 24/7 Championship, becoming the oldest person to ever hold a title in WWE history. This memorable moment, a blend of lightheartedness and genuine affection, highlighted his unique and beloved status within the WWE family. Beyond his myriad professional accomplishments, Patterson was also a pioneering figure in professional wrestling history as one of the first openly gay men within the industry, a testament to his courage and authenticity in an era when such openness was rare, further cementing his unique and powerful legacy as a trailblazer both in and out of the ring.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pat Patterson

What was Pat Patterson's real name?

Pat Patterson's birth name was Pierre Clermont.

What significant innovations did Pat Patterson bring to WWE?

Pat Patterson is notably recognized as WWE's first Intercontinental Champion and, more significantly, as the visionary creator of the iconic Royal Rumble match, a revolutionary concept that transformed professional wrestling.

How did Pat Patterson influence WWE from behind the scenes?

From behind the scenes, Pat Patterson served as a highly influential creative consultant and producer, often referred to as Vince McMahon's "right-hand man." He was a chief architect in shaping the company's creative direction, developing match finishes, and mentoring talent, playing an integral role in WWE's growth into a global phenomenon.

What unique record did Pat Patterson achieve in 2019?

In 2019, at 78 years old, Pat Patterson became the oldest person to win a title in WWE history when he captured the WWE 24/7 Championship, showcasing his enduring popularity and unique connection to the company.