Brian Mackney, known professionally as “Silent” Brian Mackney, passed away at the age of 77. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, he made history as the first deaf athlete to compete in the WWF/E.
Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, where Mackney was a celebrated alumni, announced his death in a statement shared on X:
“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 achieved all this while being deaf, proving that his hearing impairment did not hinder his success. He rose above his challenges and accomplished feats many would find impossible.
His presence was honored recently in May when he attended an event at the former Maple Leaf Gardens, underscoring his lasting impact on Maple Leaf Wrestling history.
Brian Mackney’s trailblazing career as the first deaf WWF/E wrestler demonstrated resilience and earned him a lasting legacy in professional wrestling.