When Did Wrestling Buddies Come Out?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling Buddies are iconic plush toys that became popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s. These huggable companions allowed wrestling fans to engage in their own wrestling matches safely at home. Created by toy manufacturer Tonka, Wrestling Buddies quickly gained popularity among young wrestling enthusiasts. The Birth of Wrestling Buddies The concept of Wrestling Buddies originated from the growing popularity of professional wrestling during the 1980s. As wrestling promotions like WWE (then WWF) and WCW gained widespread attention, there was a surge in demand for merchandise related to these larger-than-life characters. Tonka seized this opportunity and introduced Wrestling Buddies to capitalize on the trend. Wrestling Buddies were first released in 1986, featuring two famous wrestlers of that era: Hulk Hogan and Macho Man Randy Savage. These initial releases set the stage for a line of plush toys that would continue to expand over the years. Expanding the Roster With the success of the initial Hulk Hogan and Macho Man Randy Savage Wrestling Buddies, Tonka realized they had struck gold. They began adding more wrestlers to their lineup, allowing fans to choose their favorite superstars. The Ultimate Warrior, The Legion of Doom (Hawk and Animal), Jake “The Snake” Roberts, and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper were some of the wrestlers who joined the Wrestling Buddies family over time. Each plush toy featured a specific wrestler’s likeness, complete with their signature attire and accessories. A Safe Way to Wrestle at Home One of the key selling points of Wrestling Buddies was their safety features. These plush toys were designed with soft materials and stuffing, making them perfect for wrestling play without causing harm. Kids could reenact their favorite wrestling moves without worrying about getting hurt. Each Wrestling Buddy had a durable construction that allowed for rough play. The toys were larger than traditional plush toys, designed to withstand the energetic bouts of young wrestling enthusiasts. The Legacy of Wrestling Buddies Wrestling Buddies became a cultural phenomenon during their time. These toys captured the imagination of many young wrestling fans who dreamt of becoming professional wrestlers themselves. They provided an avenue for creative play and allowed children to immerse themselves in the world of professional wrestling. While Wrestling Buddies are no longer in production today, their impact on popular culture cannot be denied. Many collectors still cherish these iconic plush toys as nostalgic memorabilia from a golden era of professional wrestling. In conclusion, Wrestling Buddies made their debut in 1986 and quickly gained popularity among young fans of professional wrestling. These huggable companions allowed children to safely engage in their own wrestling matches at home. With an expanding roster and durable construction, Wrestling Buddies provided hours of imaginative play for aspiring wrestlers all around the world.
