Stevie Richards is an American professional wrestler and personality best known for his time in ECW and independent promotions. This Stevie Richards wiki entry summarizes key career highlights, finishing moves, and signature storylines for fans and researchers.
Below you can explore essential facts, championship history, and biographical details in a structured format designed for quick reference and deeper understanding.
| Name | Stevie Richards |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Michael Stephen Manna |
| Birth Date | August 6, 1971 |
| Birth Place | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Ring Names | Stevie Richards, The Franchise |
| Debut | 1990 |
| Weight | 235 lb (107 kg) |
Early Career and Training
Stevie Richards began his journey in professional wrestling by training under experienced veterans in the Philadelphia area. He focused on developing solid fundamentals, including striking, holds, and ring awareness.
His early independent work laid the foundation for his later success in national promotions, teaching him how to connect with audiences and adapt to different opponents.
ECW Tenure and Memorable Feuds
Richards gained widespread recognition in Extreme Championship Wrestling during the late 1990s. He became known for his wild interviews, eccentric character, and over-the-top promos.
One of his most notable feuds was with Tommy Dreamer, where he regularly interfered in matches and joined forces with Raven’s Nest, cementing his status as a major heel.
Signature Moves and Finishers
Stevie Richards is famous for his spinning side kick, which became his signature finisher for years. He also incorporated the evenizer, a piledriver variant, into his arsenal.
These moves reflected his high-energy style and helped him stand out in a crowded mid-card during the boom period of ECW.
Career Highlights and Championships
Throughout his career, Richards captured several regional and national titles. He held the ECW World Tag Team Championship and numerous independent circuit belts.
His longevity in the business is attributed to solid in-ring work, adaptability, and a strong understanding of how to build entertaining matches.
| Championship | Promotion | Times | Date Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECW World Tag Team Champion | ECW | 1 | 1997 |
| PCW Heavyweight Champion | Pro Championship Wrestling | 2 | 2000s |
| UXW Heavyweight Champion | Universal Wrestling Alliance | 1 | 2004 |
| Independent Heavyweight Titles | Various Indies | Multiple | 1999–2010 |
Later Career and Legacy
As the wrestling landscape shifted, Stevie Richards continued to perform across independent promotions and nostalgia events. He adapted to changing styles while maintaining his high-energy persona.
His contributions to hardcore and extreme wrestling remain respected, and he is often remembered for his loyalty to ECW and mentorship of younger talent.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Stevie Richards get his start in wrestling?
Stevie Richards began by training in Philadelphia under established indy veterans and quickly moved into local bookings, where he refined his promos and athleticism.
What is Stevie Richards’ most famous finishing move?
His spinning side kick is his most iconic finisher, used for many years to end matches with explosive impact.
Which major promotion was Stevie Richards most known for?
He is best known for his work in Extreme Championship Wrestling during the late 1990s.
Has Stevie Richards won any major tag team titles?
Yes, he held the ECW World Tag Team Championship as part of Raven’s Nest in 1997.