This day in Wrestling History the October 10th edition

 

                                               GIANT HAYSTACKS

Martin Austin Ruane, better known by his ring name "Giant Haystacks" (and "Loch Ness" in the US), was a British professional wrestler. With his massive size and stature, he became one of the most iconic figures in British wrestling during its television heyday in the 1970s and 1980s.

**Early Life & Career:**

Born on 10th October 1947 in Bingley, West Yorkshire, England, Ruane's family moved to Lancashire when he was still young. He started his working life in a number of labor-intensive roles including as a nightclub bouncer, which likely influenced his future career in wrestling.

**Wrestling Career:**

- **British Scene:** Giant Haystacks made his name in the UK's wrestling scene primarily with Joint Promotions and later All-Star Promotions. His towering presence (standing around 6 feet 11 inches and weighing as much as 685 pounds at his heaviest) made him an unforgettable figure in the ring.

  

- **Feuds:** His most notable feud was with Big Daddy (Shirley Crabtree). Their matches were main events, drawing huge television audiences and filling arenas throughout the country.

- **International Appearances:** Beyond the UK, Giant Haystacks also wrestled in various countries, including Canada and parts of Asia.

- **WCW Appearance:** In the 1990s, Ruane had a brief stint in the United States with World Championship Wrestling (WCW) under the ring name "Loch Ness". His tenure was short-lived, and he primarily feuded with Hulk Hogan.

**Later Life & Death:**

Ruane was diagnosed with cancer in 1996, and he passed away on 29th November 1998 at the age of 51.

**Legacy:**

Giant Haystacks left an indelible mark on the British wrestling scene. His matches and feuds, particularly with Big Daddy, are still fondly remembered by many who grew up watching wrestling during its peak on British television. Despite his imposing and often villainous on-screen persona, those who knew him often spoke of his gentle and kind nature outside the ring.

While he may not have achieved the same international recognition as some of his contemporaries, in the UK, Giant Haystacks is a true wrestling legend and is remembered as one of the most iconic figures of the sport in the country.