Brian Mackney, Canadian Wrestling Veteran, Dies at 77
Brian Mackney, a respected Canadian wrestler who competed under the name “Silent Brian,” passed away at the age of 77. He was known for his work with the World Wrestling Federation and Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, leaving a lasting legacy in Toronto and beyond.
“MAPLE LEAF PRO is saddened to hear of the passing today of ‘Silent’ Brian Mackney, a Maple Leaf Wrestling alumni and legend in Toronto. Mackney was more than a journeyman, who not only won the hearts of the Toronto fans in the 1970s and 1980s, but gained attention around the world, competing in Japan with both New Japan Pro Wrestling and All-Japan Pro Wrestling. He also worked various territories of the NWA, including Mid-Atlantic. When the WWF took over Toronto, Silent Brian continued working in Toronto for Vince McMahon for several years. Remarkably, Brian Mackney accomplished all of this as a deaf person, showing that his hearing impairment would not slow him down – he rose above it all and accomplished what many do not. We were humbled to have ‘Silent’ Brian in attendance this past May for our event at the former Maple Leaf Gardens and we are proud of his place and legacy in Maple Leaf Wrestling history. We send our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fans of the Silent Warrior during this time.”
Mackney’s career reached international audiences as he competed in Japan with major promotions such as New Japan Pro Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling. Despite his hearing impairment, he became a respected figure both inside and outside the ring, inspiring many through his determination and resilience.
Condolences have poured in from across the wrestling community, including from eWrestlingNews.com, which joined Maple Leaf Pro in honoring his memory and expressing sympathy to his loved ones.
Author’s Summary
Brian “Silent” Mackney’s unwavering career across Canada, Japan, and the WWF showed exceptional perseverance and left a profound mark on professional wrestling history.