On to Better Things: The Portland Chapters #6 Bruiser Bob Remus, Edouard Carpentier, and Afa & Sika Anoai

Episode 6: Bruiser Bob Remus, Edouard Carpentier, and Afa & Sika Anoai Before the bright lights and the global fame, three very different acts passed through Portland—each leaving behind a story that ties this territory to wrestling history. In this week’s episode, host Frank Culbertson explores how the Northwest played a part in shaping a drill instructor, a world champion, and the foundation of an entire wrestling dynasty. Bruiser Bob Remus (Sgt. Slaughter) — In 1974, a big raw-boned brawler named Bob Remus arrived in Portland and struggled to find his footing. A few wins, a few main events, and one major gimmick change later, he became Sgt. Slaughter—a name known around the world. 🌍 Edouard Carpentier — One of wrestling’s most respected world champions made a brief but fascinating stop in Portland in 1969 while touring globally. Known for his aerial athleticism long before it was common, Carpentier’s presence added prestige to the territory and inspired future generations. 🌋 Afa & Sika Anoai (The Wild Samoans) — Long before Roman Reigns, The Usos, and the Bloodline, there were Afa and Sika—the patriarchs of wrestling’s most famous family. They came through Portland in the early 1970s, unbeaten in their final run here before going on to capture the WWWF Tag Team Championship and cement a legacy that still dominates wrestling today. Three eras. Three stories. All part of the fabric that makes Portland Wrestling unforgettable. 📚 Based on The Encyclopedia of Portland Wrestlers by historian Mike Rodgers, available now on Amazon. 🎧 Follow On to Better Things: The Portland Chapters on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. 📅 New episodes every Friday.