Nikolai Volkoff
Wrestler and tag team champion
Born
October 14th, 1947
77 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2018
7 years ago — 70 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in Croatia and later moving to the United States, a professional wrestler gained fame in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the 1980s and 1990s. Volkoff's character featured elements of his Eastern European heritage, often portrayed as a Soviet villain during the height of the Cold War. He formed a successful tag team with The Iron Sheik, winning the WWF World Tag Team Championship. Additionally, Volkoff had a career in wrestling that spanned several decades, performing in various promotions across the world.
Winning the WWF World Tag Team Championship
Wrestling in main events at major wrestling venues
Other People Born on October 14th
Betty Heidler
A prominent hammer thrower, achieved notable success in international competitions. Competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and secured a bronze medal at the 2011 World Championships. Set a personal best of 79.42 meters in 2011, showcasing exceptional skill and technique in the sport.
Continue ReadingYvon Durelle
Initially started as a wrestler, transitioning to boxing and quickly gaining recognition in the sport. Held the World Light Heavyweight Championship title, showcasing exceptional skill in the ring. Competed against top fighters during the 1950s, solidifying a reputation as a formidable competitor. Achieved significant victories in both boxing and wrestling.
Continue ReadingMobutu Sese Seko
A military officer who led a coup d'état in 1965, establishing a dictatorial regime in Zaire. Held the title of President for over three decades, characterized by authoritarian rule and a centralized government. Implemented a policy of Africanization, which aimed to promote local leadership and reduce foreign influence in the economy. During the tenure, Zaire experienced significant political and economic turmoil.
Continue ReadingCraig Venter
A prominent biologist and geneticist, contributions include a leading role in the Human Genome Project. Established a company focusing on DNA sequencing and synthesis. Successfully created the first cell with a synthetic genome, which marked a significant milestone in synthetic biology. Engaged in significant research on the genome of Mycoplasma laboratorium.
Continue ReadingTillakaratne Dilshan
A prominent cricketer represented Sri Lanka in international cricket, gaining recognition for exceptional batting skills. Played as an aggressive opening batsman and a handy off-spin bowler. Contributed significantly to the team's success in limited-overs cricket during his career. Achieved the distinction of being one of the few players to score over 10,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Retired from the national team after a successful career and later engaged in coaching and mentoring young players.
Continue ReadingUdo Kier
Born in Germany and later becoming a naturalized American citizen, this actor and director has contributed to both European and American cinema. Active since the late 1960s, this figure gained prominence in horror and art films. Collaborated with notable directors including Kenneth Anger, Lars von Trier, and Wim Wenders. Numerous roles span from avant-garde cinema to mainstream projects, with a significant presence in genre films throughout the decades. This individual has also directed several films and appeared in various television series.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 29th
Erich Kästner
Born in 1899, this German author and poet gained fame for writing children's literature as well as satirical poetry. The work 'Emil and the Detectives' published in 1928, became one of the most beloved children's books in Germany. The narrative follows a young boy's adventures as he teams up with other children to capture a thief in Berlin. Kästner's writing often reflected his observations of society and politics, particularly during the tumultuous times of the Weimar Republic and the rise of Nazism. His works were notable for their blend of humor and social commentary. Despite the ban of many of his books by the Nazi regime, they continued to be published and celebrated post-World War II. Kästner also contributed to various literary forms, including screenplays and essays, and received multiple awards for his literary achievements throughout his career.
Continue ReadingChristian Benítez
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Achieved prominence in various clubs, especially with El Nacional and Club América. Excelled in the Ecuador national team, contributing to their participation in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Winning multiple league titles and cups in Ecuador and Mexico marked a significant part of the career. Recognized for exceptional scoring abilities and work ethic on the field.
Continue ReadingHasan Saka
Served as the 7th Prime Minister of Turkey from 1946 to 1947. Oversaw the early post-war period in Turkey characterized by political changes and economic challenges. Involved in the transition of Turkey towards multi-party democracy. Held various government positions before ascension to the premiership, contributing to the shaping of modern Turkish governance during a formative time in the country's history.
Continue ReadingJohann Kies
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and mathematics during the 18th century. Developed lunar tables and worked on calculating planetary positions. Published astronomical observations that aided in navigation and understanding celestial mechanics. His work influenced later developments in astronomy and mathematics.
Continue ReadingLeonardo De Lorenzo
An influential flute player and educator, contributed significantly to flute pedagogy and performance in the early 20th century. Associated with major orchestras, performed as a soloist and in chamber music settings. Published numerous works and instructional materials that became standard references for flute players. Served as a professor at various music institutions, shaping the careers of many flutists.
Continue ReadingMickey Cohen
Mickey Cohen became a prominent figure in organized crime in Los Angeles during the mid-20th century. Involved in various illegal activities, he played a significant role in the nightclub and gambling scene. His operations included bootlegging, loan sharking, and racketeering. Cohen's association with the Chicago Outfit and other crime families helped him expand his influence in the region. Throughout his criminal career, he faced numerous legal challenges and was incarcerated multiple times. His life was characterized by notable conflicts with law enforcement and rival gangs, solidifying his reputation as a key player in the mafia landscape of the time.
Continue Reading