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911 (wrestler)

From Alfawiki
Alfred Poling
Born
Alfred Poling

(1957-01-22) January 22, 1957 (age 69)
Other names911, Al the Sledgehammer, Tombstone, Sledge Hammer, Big Al
OccupationProfessional wrestler
Years active1990–present
Known forExtreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), World Championship Wrestling (WCW)
Notable workMember of Dangerous Alliance faction in ECW; Pro Wrestling Illustrated Rookie of the Year (1994)

Alfred Poling (born January 22, 1957) is a former American professional wrestler, widely recognized by his ring persona 911. He achieved national recognition during his tenure with Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) from 1994 through 1996.

Early years (1990–1994)

Under the guidance of trainer Larry Sharpe, Poling entered the wrestling scene in 1990, initially performing on the independent circuit under the name "Al the Sledgehammer."

Eastern/Extreme Championship Wrestling (1994–1996, 1998)

Poling's profile increased significantly in ECW, where he made his debut on January 18, 1994, as an unnamed "handler" for Sabu. He became a member of Paul Heyman’s Dangerous Alliance faction alongside Sabu and The Tazmaniac. Adopting the role of an enforcer, he was soon dubbed 911 at The Night the Line Was Crossed event (February 5), where he secured a victory over Chad Austin. His signature move, the chokeslam, was a crowd favorite and contributed to his rapid rise in popularity.

In 1994, 911 contended for the ECW Television Championship against Mikey Whipwreck at When Worlds Collide but was disqualified after delivering a chokeslam to the referee. He engaged in a rivalry with Mr. Hughes, defeating him at Hardcore Heaven. During the NWA World Title Tournament (August 27), 911 advanced to the semifinals by overcoming Doink the Clown but was eliminated by 2 Cold Scorpio. He concluded that year by winning a handicap match against The Pitbulls at Holiday Hell and received Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s Rookie of the Year honor for 1994.

Throughout 1995, Poling achieved victories over Ron Simmons at Hostile City Showdown and Jim Steele at Barbed Wire, Hoodies & Chokeslams. His last ECW appearance was at House Party (1996), where he teamed with Rey Misterio Jr. to defeat The Eliminators. A planned storyline feud with Taz was canceled when Poling departed from ECW in early 1996 due to a backstage disagreement with Heyman regarding treatment of the ring crew.

Poling made a brief return to ECW in 1998 during UltraClash in Philadelphia, where he executed a chokeslam on Bill Wiles under the management of Judge Jeff Jones. An unplanned match against Spike Dudley resulted in a swift loss for 911.

World Championship Wrestling (1996–1997)

Between 1996 and 1997, Poling performed in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) using various ring names including Tombstone, Sledge Hammer, and Big Al.

Later career (from 1997 onward)

In the late 1990s, 911 competed for Jersey All Pro Wrestling (JAPW) based in New Jersey, capturing the JAPW Heavyweight Championship on two occasions. In 2002, he appeared at Pro-Pain Pro Wrestling's A War Renewed, supporting Tod Gordon and Sabu by delivering a chokeslam to Sandman. At Hardcore Homecoming in 2005, he performed chokeslams on both Danny Doring and Roadkill. Additionally, he wrestled for New York Wrestling League in 2008 and participated in the GTS Regal Rumble event in 2020.

Personal life

Poling resides in West Creek, New Jersey alongside his eight children. His son Vinny Poling is also active as a professional wrestler within the independent circuit.

Championships and accomplishments

External links

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