If you are a wrestling fan, especially from the 1980s and 90s, you know Barry Horowitz. Soon you’ll know much more about Barry through his autobiography, Wrestling Is My Gimmick: My Life on the Wrong Side of the Three Count. The title is a light-hearted reference to getting pinned in wrestling, but there is much more to Barry’s life and career than a simple win-loss record.

Knowing at a young age he wanted to be a pro wrestler, Barry worked hard towards that singular goal. In 1979, he realized that goal, starting a pro wrestling career that would last more than 40 years.

Although Barry wrestled in several other organizations, he is probably best known for his runs in the WWF/WWE. While Barry’s main role in the WWF was to make others look good, he picked up some impressive wins along the way. Outside of the WWE, he won several championships, both in singles and tag teams. He was also named Most Inspirational Wrestler of the Year for 1995 by Pro Wrestling Illustrated.

Having seen many of Barry’s matches, including a few times live in the Rosemont Horizon, regardless of the outcome, Barry always seemed to be on the verge of victory. He looked strong and made his opponents look great. Barry always played his role well, a fact which brings great pride to him (and rightly so).

When I heard Barry had a book coming out, I knew I had to add it to my bookshelf, but I also wanted to interview him. Much to my delight, Barry responded to my email request and we scheduled the interview.

It’s always exciting when the camera clicks on and I see my interview subject on Zoom. There Barry was, looking great and very relaxed. Because I knew a lot about Barry and did even more research heading into the interview, I had the interview path laid out in my mind. Almost 30 minutes later, I realized time had flown and I could not have been happier with the interview, much thanks to Barry. (On a side note, I had to reschedule the interview once, something I rarely do, but Barry could not have been nicer and more understanding in rescheduling.)

Barry was so professional, engaging and open, he made my job easy and highly enjoyable. He discussed his path to wrestling, his first match, his role in the WWF and elsewhere and more, including his book, of course. Barry discussed being a Jewish wrestler and how he made sure to handle it respectfully. He also gave the origin of his legendary pat-on-the-back.

Wrestling Is My Gimmick promises to be an intimate look at Barry’s career. Barry doesn’t look to praise himself, nor bury others. He simply tells his story, and an amazing story it is. It is 120 pages telling the story of a man who was dedicated to the wrestling industry, whether he was winning the Global Wrestling Federation Lightweight championship or making many WWF wrestlers look great.

I was very impressed with Barry’s attitude throughout the interview. Barry helped build the careers of so many others without getting enough of the spotlight he deserved. Still he holds no bitterness. In fact, he is proud of his career and deservedly so. Barry not only accepted his role, he embraced it and gave fans great performances.

Wrestling Is My Gimmick is scheduled for an October 20 release date. It is available for pre-order already and I have placed my order. After following his career, then interviewing him, I can’t wait to read Wrestling Is My Gimmick.