George Zahorian is a name that resonates with many professional wrestling enthusiasts, especially those familiar with the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) universe. This blog post will delve into the life of George Zahorian, a man who found fame not only for his medical practice but also for his controversial association with the WWE.
Despite his notorious past, Zahorian has managed to carve out a successful career in the medical field.
Who is George Zahorian?
Born and raised in Pennsylvania, George Zahorian grew up with aspirations of becoming a medical professional. His dedication and hard work paid off when he became a certified medical doctor, specializing in urology. He is an American by nationality and belongs to a mixed ethnicity.
However, Zahorian didn’t limit his professional life to just medicine. His association with the WWE would turn him into a controversial figure within the wrestling community.
What Does George Zahorian Do?
In the early 1980s, Zahorian became a ringside doctor for WWE. During this period, he was accused of supplying anabolic steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs to wrestlers. This scandal marked the first significant controversy for WWE, leading to the eventual shutdown of the World Bodybuilding Federation.
Early Life and Career Development
Zahorian started his medical journey in 1966, focusing on urology from 1980. His relationship with WWE began in 1984. However, this association would lead to his downfall. In 1986, the Anti-Drug Abuse Act started clamping down on the distribution of Anabolic Steroids. Zahorian was caught in the midst of this crackdown when journalist Weldon T. Johnson exposed his illicit activities. Zahorian was accused of supplying drugs to 43 professional wrestlers, with 37 linked to the WWE.
In 1991, Zahorian was convicted on 15 counts of drug trafficking, leading to a three-year prison sentence, a fine, and probation. He cooperated with prosecutors to indict WWE’s Vince McMahon in 1992. Despite his conviction, Zahorian managed to rebuild his medical career post-prison.
After serving his sentence, Zahorian resumed his medical practice and has since found considerable success. He served as a director for Synavant and Dendrite International before starting Cocoa Urology Associates in 2008. He has earned several accolades for his services.
Today, Zahorian is a practicing urologist in Pennsylvania, specializing in treating adult and geriatric patients with urinary tract and male reproductive system disorders. He is a member of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons and the American Osteopathic Association.
Despite his scandalous past, Zahorian refrains from commenting on the steroid scandal, considering it a part of his history. This attitude adds a layer of intrigue and mystique to his character.
George Zahorian Involvement in the Steroid Epidemic
In the 1980s, the name George Zahorian was synonymous with the steroid epidemic. Zahorian, a licensed physician, played a pivotal role in this controversial issue. His involvement was a critical turning point in the world of professional wrestling. The Pennsylvania-based doctor was well-known for distributing anabolic steroids to professional wrestlers. His actions, although initially under the radar, would soon catch the attention of the federal government.
The steroid epidemic of that era was shocking. Wrestlers, bodybuilders, and athletes were the main customers for these body-enhancing drugs. Zahorian, realizing the demand, cashed in on this opportunity. His actions later sparked a wave of public outrage and legal scrutiny. The doctor’s role in this crisis was something that could not be ignored.
It’s important to note that Zahorian’s actions were initially legal. Steroids were not criminalized until the mid-1980s. Before this point, many wrestlers turned to Zahorian for performance-enhancing drugs. This connection between Zahorian and professional wrestling was a ticking time-bomb waiting to explode.
Legal Troubles and Indictment
George Zahorian’s legal troubles began in earnest when the federal government cracked down on steroid use. In 1991, Zahorian was indicted on charges of illegally distributing anabolic steroids. He was one of the first doctors to face such charges. The indictment marked a significant shift in the way the law viewed steroid distribution.
Zahorian’s trial was a media circus. Many famous wrestlers were called to testify, causing a sensation in the wrestling world. Zahorian was found guilty on 12 of the 14 counts of illegal steroid distribution. He was sentenced to three years in federal prison. His conviction sent shockwaves through the wrestling industry, causing many to reconsider their use of steroids.
The Lasting Legacy of George Zahorian
The legacy of George Zahorian is one of controversy and caution. His actions contributed to the steroid epidemic that plagued the wrestling industry for years. His conviction, however, led to stricter laws and regulations regarding steroid use. This has undoubtedly protected many potential users from the harmful effects of these drugs.
Zahorian’s story serves as a stark warning to those in the medical profession. His downfall illustrates the severe consequences of unethical practices. Despite the negative aspects of Zahorian’s legacy, his case has had a positive impact in the fight against drug abuse in sports.
George Zahorian may be a controversial figure, but his story is an important chapter in the history of professional wrestling and sports medicine.
His involvement in the steroid epidemic, his legal troubles, and his lasting legacy are all critical aspects of understanding the risks and repercussions of performance-enhancing drugs.
Conclusion
The story of George Zahorian serves as a stark reminder of the high-stakes world of professional wrestling. From a reputed urologist to a controversial figure, his journey provides an intriguing study of a man who managed to rebuild his life despite his notorious past. Today, Zahorian continues to practice medicine, leaving his controversial past behind, focusing instead on providing valuable medical services to his patients.
