Wladek Zbyszko

Władysław Cyganiewicz (November 30, 1892 – June 10, 1968), better known by the ring name Władek Zbyszko , was a Polish catch wrestler, professional wrestler and strongman. "Zbyszko" was his older brother Stanislaus Zbyszko's childhood nickname, borrowed from a fictional medieval knight in the novel Krzyżacy; both brothers used it as their ring name.

Personal life Władysław Cyganiewicz was born in 1892 in the Grand Duchy of Kraków, then part of Austria-Hungary. He studied at the University of Krakow and would later receive a degree in law from the University of Vienna.

Wladek Zbyszko was still billed as the American Heavyweight Champion as late as September 22, 1922 after which that title was abandoned in lieu of various "World" Championships. Historian Dave Meltzer described the bout as "one of the most famous matches in Brazil of that era, and a key in the building of the Gracie legacy. It is unknown whether the match was a work, a shoot, or something in between." Zybszko wrestled as late as 1950 before retiring to a farm in Savannah, Missouri. Other Titles American Heavyweight Championship (1 time) Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum Pioneer Era: Class of 2009