First Deaf Wrestler in WWF/E History Passes Away
Brian Mackney, known professionally as “Silent” Brian Mackney, has died at the age of 77. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Mackney made history as the first deaf athlete to compete in the WWF/E.
Career Highlights
Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, where Mackney was a beloved alumnus, announced his passing 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 alumnus 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.
- Competed in various NWA territories including Mid-Atlantic.
- Worked in Toronto for Vince McMahon after WWF took over the city.
Legacy and Impact
Mackney’s career is notable for overcoming his hearing impairment, proving it did not hold him back. He rose above challenges to achieve what many cannot.
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.
Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling expressed pride in his legacy and recalled his attendance at their event in May at the former Maple Leaf Gardens.
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.
Author's summary: Brian Mackney, wrestling pioneer and the first deaf WWF/E athlete, left a lasting legacy by overcoming his hearing impairment and inspiring fans worldwide.