by Dory Funk Jr. – Coach Funking Conservatory and Trainer of Developmental Talent for WWE – http://www.dory-funk.com
I turned pro in January of 1963 just after finishing a football career at West Texas State University. In my first year I faced Sonny Meyers, Nelson Royal, Verne Gagne, Gene Kiniski, Iron Mike Dibiase and Pat O’Connor on the way to an NWA World Heavyweight Championship Match with Lou Thesz. My father and promoter of the Amarillo Territory Dory Funk Sr. always said, “You will never learn the business unless you have the opportunity to work with the best.” (Classic opportunity to learn the wrestling business)