After setting a world record in 1959 by bench-pressing 565 pounds, Sammartino caught the eye of Mr. McMahon’s father, Vincent J. McMahon, and went pro almost instantly. Bruno became an overnight ...

Bruno Sammartino ... Vincent McMahon after breaking a world record in 1959. Sammartino, who was also dubbed "The Italian Superman", bench-pressed 565lbs (256kg). He performed at Madison Square ...