Earl Wampler moved to Iowa from Pennsylvania when he was 15 years old and became a professional wrestler shortly after arriving. Earning a reputation as a hard-working, well-conditioned athlete, Wampler became a mentor to a young Lou Thesz and was instrumental in shaping him during his formative years. When World War II began, Wampler joined the United States Marines and trained troops in judo in Virginia. He wrestled in Madison Square Garden and in Mexico City and was one of the early pioneers of televised wrestling before retiring in 1952. He was the Iowa Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight Champion during a career that spanned 40 years.