George Kosti (30 April 1930 – 16 December 1982) was a Canadianprofessional wrestler and referee who spent his career in the American Wrestling Association (AWA) in Minnesota as George "Scrap Iron" Gadaski.[3] Gadaski was considered the "jack of all trades" as he did ring set up, and later became a road agent.
Professional wrestling career
Originally a hockey player he was the property of the Regina Pats and Chicago Blackhawks. He chose family obligations over hockey and ended his career. Trained by Stu Hart and became a wrestler.
Kosti made his professional wrestling debut in 1959 in Calgary for Stampede Wrestling. Kosti would then work in Canada and the southern States. He got the nickname "Scarp Iron" by a Georgia promoter.[4]
On December 10, 1972, Gadaski fought in Ric Flair's first ever match ending in a 10-minute draw.[6][7] In 1973, he defeated Flair.[8]
Kosti teamed with Kenny Jay during his career[9] and wrestled his last match in 1981. Also refereed his last match in January 1982.
Death
Kosti was diagnosed with a brain tumor. In April 1982, the AWA did a fundraiser. He died on December 16, 1982, from the effects from the tumor at a hospital in St. Croix Falls. He was 52.[4]
References
General
Nevada, Vance (2022). (Un)Controlled Chaos: Canada's Remarkable Professional Wrestling Legacy. FriesenPress. ISBN9781039154797.
