Nelson Royal

Early life Combs was born on July 21, 1935, in Wheelwright, Kentucky. In 1966, he formed a tag team with Tex McKenzie.

On December 6, 1976, Royal defeated Ron Starr to win the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship. He lost the championship to Chavo Guerrero, Sr. in February 1978, regaining it the following month and losing it to Guerrero once more in April 1978. In July 1979, Royal won the championship for a third time, defeating Al Madril by forfeit. Royal held the championship until December of that year before vacating it upon retiring from professional wrestling His father was in ill heath and Nelson operated his farm as well as his own western wear business.

Late career (1983–1989) Royal broke his retirement in 1983, wrestling a handful of matches over the following years before returning to a fuller schedule in 1986.

In early 1987, Royal made a second tour with All Japan Pro Wrestling. and Ken Shamrock.

Personal life Royal was married to Karen L. Royal.

Royal settled in Mooresville, North Carolina, where he owned a ranch. He was active in Crime Stoppers and Drug Abuse Resistance Education.

Championships and accomplishments Cauliflower Alley Club Other honoree (1996) Heart of America Sports Attractions NWA Central States Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Medic #2 Pacific Northwest Wrestling NWA Pacific Northwest Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Black Hawk Southeastern Championship Wrestling NWA Tennessee Tag Team Championship (3 times) – with Les Thatcher (2 times) and Ron Wright (1 time)