Big Boss Man was the WWE character portrayed by Ray Traylor, a former corrections officer from Cobb County, Georgia. A September 2004 local news report said Traylor died at home of “apparent heart failure”; WWE later honored him with a posthumous Hall of Fame induction in 2016.
Who was Big Boss Man?
Big Boss Man was the ring name of Ray Traylor. WWE says he was a former Cobb County corrections officer whom manager Slick recruited in 1988. The character drew on the visual shorthand of a lawman, including handcuffs and a nightstick. WWE lists his billed height as 6 feet 7 inches and weight as 330 pounds; those are profile figures, not independently verified measurements. WWE’s official profile lists his signature move as the Boss Man Slam.
How did Ray Traylor die?
WIS-TV reported on September 24, 2004, citing the Paulding County coroner, that Traylor died at his Georgia home on Wednesday night of “apparent heart failure.” The Wednesday identified by the report was September 22, 2004. “Apparent heart failure” is the qualified description in that contemporary report, not a definitive medical finding established here. Read the WIS-TV report.
How did the Big Boss Man character change?
WWE’s profile describes two main phases of the fictional character. The first presented him as a lawman; after returning in 1998, he became a black-uniformed enforcer during the Attitude Era.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- The WWE Universe can collect iconic action figures of favorite WWE Superstars from Monday Night RAW, Friday Night Smackdown, and NXT, plus WWE Legends and Hall of Famers!
- Each WWE figure features highly detailed TrueFX technology for life-like authenticity.
- Recreate signature poses and finishing moves with 25 points of articulation on the Superstar figures for extreme posability!
- Includes interchangeable hands and iconic accessories, like entrance gear or WWE championships for play or display!
- Gift a favorite WWE action figure or make your collection elite!
| Character phase | Presentation and role | Storylines WWE highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Original run | Corrections-officer and lawman imagery, including handcuffs and a nightstick. | He teamed with Akeem as the Twin Towers. WWE says they did not win the World Tag Team titles but became central opponents for Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage’s Mega Powers. The profile also highlights his feud with the Mountie and their 1991 SummerSlam Jailhouse Match, followed by a feud with Nailz. |
| 1998 return | Black riot-squad attire and a role as Mr. McMahon’s bodyguard in the rivalry with Steve Austin. | WWE also recounts controversial angles involving Big Show and Al Snow. |
These events were scripted wrestling storylines, not descriptions of real-life conduct. WWE’s profile lists Traylor’s career highlights as Hardcore Champion, World Tag Team Champion and WWE Hall of Famer. WWE’s profile presents its own account of his character and career.
Was Big Boss Man inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame?
Yes. WWE posthumously inducted Big Boss Man on April 2, 2016. Former manager Slick delivered the induction, and Traylor’s widow, Angela, and daughters, Lacy and Megan, joined the tribute. In its ceremony recap, WWE characterized the family’s tribute as remembering a kind, giving man whose private character contrasted with the hard-edged persona in the ring. WWE’s 2016 Hall of Fame recap documents the induction.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is Big Boss Man’s legacy?
WWE’s own account points to a character recognizable across two distinct eras: first a lawman-style wrestler involved in prominent rivalries, then an Attitude Era enforcer. His career included tag-team and Hardcore Championship accolades, and his 2016 induction gave that history a formal place in WWE’s Hall of Fame. The family tribute also offered a distinction between the intimidating character audiences saw on screen and the kind, giving person they remembered.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 12-INCH ACTION FIGURE: With 11 points of articulation, pose this 12-inch SUPERMAN action figure into a variety of dynamic action poses. Unite with your favorite heroes and create your own adventures
- AUTHENTIC COMIC STYLING: This articulated action figure is highly detailed, featuring a cloth cape and comic styling that brings your favorite DC superhero to life
- COLLECT THEM ALL: Bring the excitement and adventure of the DC Universe home Add heroes like SUPERMAN, THE FLASH, SHAZAM and WONDER WOMAN to your action figure collection (each sold separately)
- The DC Comics 12-Inch Action Figures make a great gift for fans and collectors aged 3 and up. Batman toys for kids, superhero toys, RC cars, and cool toys for boys of all ages Use your imagination to create your own epic adventures with the DC Comics 12-Inch Action Figures
- GIFT FOR KIDS: Gifts for kids who love DC Super Heroes, Batman action figures, Justice League toys Superhero toys are the ultimate birthday, holiday and toy gifts for boys and girls
Rank #4
- Big Boss Man in Funko Form! Figure stands 4 inches tall bundled and shipped in pop protector case
Rank #3
- Fans can recreate their favorite WWE moments with this 2-pack featuring Superstars Ultimate Warrior and Honky Tonk Man!
- Each 6-inch action figure comes with multiple pieces like swappable heads and hands, plus iconic ring gear -- switch up their expression and stance!
- More than 30 points of articulation allow true-to-life posing for dynamic play and display -- capture a signature move!
- Facial design features TrueFX technology for life-like looks and added collectability.
- WWE fans can find their favorite Superstars or can collect them all (each sold separately, subject to availability).
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
