Lasting Legacy of Ric Flair: A Look at the Influence on History

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Ric Flair

How the contributions of Ric Flair continue to shape the world today.

Ric Flair, born Richard Morgan Fliehr, is a highly celebrated, now-retired American professional wrestler. Often considered the greatest of all time by peers and journalists, his career spanned an impressive 50 years. Flair's wrestling persona was characterized by his flamboyant style, signature 'Wooo!' catchphrase, and in-ring performances. He achieved significant success, winning numerous championships across various wrestling promotions, solidifying his legacy as a wrestling icon.

1999: Named Greatest NWA World Heavyweight Champion of All Time

In 1999, Ric Flair was named the greatest NWA World Heavyweight Champion of all time by a large group of professional wrestling experts, analysts, and historians.

2002: Named Greatest Professional Wrestler of All Time in Book

In 2002, Ric Flair was named the greatest professional wrestler of all time in the book The Top 100 Wrestlers of All Time by John Molinaro, edited by Dave Meltzer and Jeff Marek.

March 29, 2008: WWE Hall of Fame Induction

On March 29, 2008, Ric Flair was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2008. Triple H inducted him.

March 31, 2008: Flair's Farewell Address on Raw

On March 31, 2008, Ric Flair delivered his farewell address on Raw. Many current and retired superstars came out to thank him, including Shawn Michaels, the Four Horsemen, Ricky Steamboat, Harley Race, and Chris Jericho, followed by The Undertaker and Vince McMahon. The fans gave Flair a standing ovation.

September 29, 2008: Flair's Robe Placed in National Museum of American History

On September 29, 2008, it was announced that Ric Flair's sequin-covered robe from WrestleMania XXIV would be placed in the pop culture section of the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.

March 31, 2012: Second WWE Hall of Fame Induction

On March 31, 2012, Ric Flair became the first person to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice, with The Four Horsemen.

2012: Jim Ross's Defense of Flair's Legacy

In 2012, Jim Ross defended Ric Flair's legacy, citing his "passion and need to earn a living" as reasons for continuing to wrestle.

July 2016: Named Greatest Professional Wrestler of All Time by Sports Illustrated

In July 2016, Luke Winkie of Sports Illustrated named Ric Flair the greatest professional wrestler of all time.

2016: Flair's Regret About TNA

In 2016, Ric Flair stated that continuing to wrestle in TNA was the "number one" regret of his career.

2017: ESPN Airs 'Nature Boy' Documentary

In 2017, ESPN aired Nature Boy, a 30 for 30 documentary about Ric Flair's career, directed by Rory Karpf.