X-Nico

4 unusual facts about Jim Arvanitis


Jim Arvanitis

He attended Greek school to learn the language and became enchanted with the myths and legends of the culture.

Arvanitis' interest in grappling brought him in contact with many former professional wrestlers from the old NWA and World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) including the likes of Lou Thesz, Bruno Sammartino, and Walter "Killer" Kowalski.

In 1973, prominent martial arts journalist and weapons expert Massad Ayoob learned of Arvanitis and approached him for an interview.

Pankration

"Amateur Pankration" was first introduced to the martial arts community by Greek-American combat athlete Jim Arvanitis in 1969 and later exposed worldwide in 1973 when he was featured on the cover of Black Belt magazine.



see also