Moondog Spot, American wrestler (d. 2003)

Larry Booker, a distinctive figure in the world of professional wrestling, was widely recognized by his memorable ring names: Moondog Spot and Larry Latham. Born on June 6, 1952, Booker's impactful career spanned several decades before his untimely passing on November 29, 2003.

The Iconic Moondog Spot Persona

Larry Booker's most iconic and enduring portrayal was undoubtedly that of Moondog Spot, a pivotal member of the notorious Moondogs stable. This unique gimmick saw Booker embody a wild, unkempt, and seemingly feral individual, often characterized by a torn denim attire, a shaggy beard, and the peculiar habit of carrying or chewing on an actual bone. Under the often eccentric managerial guidance of figures like Captain Lou Albano, Moondog Spot, alongside his various partners, cultivated a reputation for their unpredictable and brawling style, making them a formidable and visually distinctive presence in any wrestling promotion. The Moondogs were renowned for their often unsanitary and savage approach, which contrasted sharply with the more polished acts of the era, cementing their place as unique anti-heroes or villains depending on the territory.

A Career Defined by Championships and Territories

Larry Booker's professional wrestling journey was extensive, seeing him compete across numerous prominent organizations throughout North America. While his Moondog Spot persona brought him international fame, particularly in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now known as WWE, he also showcased his talents under the name Larry Latham in various territories. As Larry Latham, he often presented a more traditional wrestling style, particularly in the earlier stages of his career, before fully committing to the Moondog gimmick that cemented his legacy.

Key Achievements and Affiliations:

• WWF Tag Team Champion: One of the most significant achievements of his career was capturing the prestigious WWF Tag Team Championship. He held this title alongside his partner, Moondog Rex, on March 17, 1981. This victory solidified The Moondogs as one of the premier and most recognizable tag teams of their era, renowned for their rugged, no-nonsense in-ring approach.
• Memphis Wrestling Stalwart: Booker was a consistent and respected presence in the vibrant Memphis wrestling scene, particularly with the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA) and later the United States Wrestling Association (USWA). Here, he continued to evolve his character and engage in memorable feuds against local legends, contributing significantly to the region's rich wrestling history.
• Broad Territorial Exposure: Beyond the WWF and Memphis, Booker also made notable appearances in promotions such as Mid-South Wrestling, World Class Championship Wrestling, and even briefly in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), demonstrating his versatility and adaptability to different wrestling environments and styles across the professional wrestling landscape.

Legacy and Passing

Larry Booker's life in professional wrestling concluded tragically on November 29, 2003, when he passed away in the ring during a match for an independent wrestling event in Tunica, Mississippi. His death, attributed to natural causes, marked a somber end to a dedicated career that spanned over three decades. He is remembered not only for his distinctive Moondog Spot character, which remains a memorable part of wrestling history due to its unique visual appeal and raw intensity, but also for his unwavering dedication to the sport. His contributions to the tag team division and his ability to embody a truly unique persona left an indelible mark on the landscape of professional wrestling, influencing subsequent generations of performers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Larry Booker (Moondog Spot)

What were Larry Booker's primary ring names?

Larry Booker was primarily known by his two prominent ring names: Moondog Spot, which was his most famous persona as part of The Moondogs stable, and Larry Latham, a name he often used earlier in his career or in different territories.

What was the Moondogs stable known for?

The Moondogs, including Moondog Spot, were renowned for their distinctive wild, unkempt appearances, often featuring torn clothing, shaggy beards, and a signature bone accessory. They were known for their brawling, rugged in-ring style and were often managed by eccentric figures like Captain Lou Albano. They were a prominent and visually memorable tag team in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the early 1980s.

Did Moondog Spot win any major championships?

Yes, Moondog Spot achieved significant championship success, most notably by winning the prestigious WWF Tag Team Championship with his partner, Moondog Rex, on March 17, 1981. They held the title for 63 days before losing it to Tony Garea and Rick Martel.

How did Larry Booker (Moondog Spot) pass away?

Larry Booker passed away on November 29, 2003, after collapsing in the ring during a professional wrestling match at an independent event in Tunica, Mississippi. His death, which occurred mid-match, was attributed to natural causes.