The popular documentary series Dark Side of the Ring returns with a new episode, “Chris Adams: The Gentleman and the Demon,” shedding light on the life and tragic end of wrestling sensation ‘Gentleman’ Chris Adams. Known for his charm, prowess, and instinct in the ring, Adams rose to prominence in the wrestling world, but his success was overshadowed by a violent relationship with alcohol that ultimately led to his untimely death.
Born on February 10, 1955, in Rugby, Warwickshire, England, Adams began his wrestling career in 1978, appearing on World of Sport. He soon gained recognition for his innovative moves, including somersaulting out of an armbar and his signature superkick, which has been adopted by many wrestlers today. Adams’ influence extended beyond the ring, as he was also a skilled martial artist, having won three judo championships by the age of 21.
However, Adams’ success was marred by his struggles with alcohol and drugs. In 1986, he was involved in an incident on a flight where he assaulted an airline pilot and a male flight attendant while under the influence. This incident resulted in a 90-day jail sentence and a $500 fine. Adams’ alcohol dependence was further heightened by a flight cancellation that led to an open bar for wrestlers, enabling excessive drinking.
In April 2000, Adams and his girlfriend, Linda Kaphengst, overdosed on a combination of alcohol and GHB, a drug popular among bodybuilders and wrestlers at the time. Tragically, Kaphengst passed away, and Adams was charged with manslaughter, facing up to 20 years in prison. While awaiting trial, Adams’ life came to a tragic end on October 7, 2001, when he was fatally shot during a drunken brawl with his friend, William Brent “Booray” Parnell.
“Chris Adams: The Gentleman and the Demon” looks into the highs and lows of Adams’ career, his personal demons, and the impact he had on the world of wrestling. It features interviews with those who knew him, including family, friends, and fellow wrestlers, painting a complex portrait of the man behind the ring persona.
Dark Side of the Ring airs on Vice at 10.00 pm on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.
