Pak Song Nam (April 11, 1943 – October 24, 1982[2]) was a Korean professional wrestler who appeared primarily under the name Pak Song. He is notable for his appearances with the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and the Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF) during the 1970s. His feud with Dusty Rhodes in 1974 is credited for making Rhodes one of the most popular "fan favorites" in the NWA's Florida territory.[3]
In 1972, Song would make his debut for Championship Wrestling from Florida. He was portrayed as a martial artist, dubbed "The Korean Assassin", and broke wood and cement with his bare hands on television.[3] Managed by Gary Hart, Song feuded with Dusty Rhodes, Hiro Matsuda, Jack Brisco and Terry Funk. Song's feud with Dusty Rhodes also worked in Georgia. Song would stay in Florida until 1979. He even was their heavyweight champion.[5]
During his time in Florida, Song worked in various territories in the States and a return to Japan in 1975 for All Japan Pro Wrestling.
On October 10, 1976, Song fought NWF World Heavyweight Champion Antonio Inoki in Seoul, South Korea where Song lost by count out in 18 minutes.[6]
Pak Song died on the afternoon of October 24th, 1982, at Dangbu Hospital from complications of diabetes at the age of 39. Although some have speculated that Marfan syndrome contributed to his death,[9] his obituary reported complications from diabetes as the cause.[10]
Song was survived by his wife, Lee Hye-ran, a son, and a daughter.
