When Did Lanny Poffo Become The Genius?

Late Lanny Poffo earned the name “The Genius” on March 18, 1989.

Who Was Lanny Poffo?

Lanny Poffo, popularly known by the nicknames “Leaping” and The Genius, was a WWE wrestling champion,  and the brother of “Macho Man” Randy Savage.

Born on December 28, 1954, in Calgary, Canada, Poffo doubled as a motivational speaker, poet, and actor.

Poffo made his wrestling debut in 1974, defeating the The Royal Kangaroos.

He wrestled in several championships and even faced his father, Angelo Poffo, his brother, Randy Savage and WWE champion Hulk Hogan.

In 1978, he fought at “Atlantic Grand Prix Wrestling”, and eventually played host on TV spot on ATV, presenting two shows in two different towns.

Also in 1978, Poffo was named the first ever AGPW International Heavyweight Champion.

In 2015, represented his brother, Randy Savage who was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. He has also appeared on a number of ROH telecasts.

Poffo died from an unknown cause on February 2, 2023, at the age of 68.

He is survived by his daughter, Magen Poffo.