Buddy Landel was an American actor and professional wrestler known for his roles in Box of Moonlight, World Championship Wrestling, and Smoky Mountain Wrestling. Born William Ansor on August 17, 1961, in Knoxville, Tennessee, he is widely recognized for his wrestling persona as “Nature Boy.” He passed away on June 22, 2015, in a tragic car accident.
Personal and Family Life
Buddy Landel was married to Donna on October 8, 1981, and they remained together until his death. The couple had two children. Throughout his life, Buddy was known for his friendly and charismatic personality, which made him a popular figure both in and out of the wrestling ring.
Career Highlights
Buddy Landel began his professional wrestling career in 1979 and quickly gained popularity for his in-ring style and ability. He held multiple championships, including the Smoky Mountain Wrestling World Heavyweight Championship. In addition to wrestling, he appeared in several commercials and television shows, showcasing his talents beyond the ring.
Death and Legacy
Buddy Landel died in a car accident on June 22, 2015, in Chilhowie, Virginia. His passing was a significant loss to the wrestling community, where he is remembered for his contributions to the sport. Many fans and fellow wrestlers honored his legacy, celebrating his impactful career and the joy he brought to audiences.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| NWA The Great American Bash 1985 | 1985-07-16 | Buddy Landel |
| WCW Great American Bash ’90: New Revolution | 1990-07-07 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| WCW WrestleWar 1991 | 1991-02-24 | Buddy Landel |
| Box of Moonlight | 1996-08-29 | Uncle Samson |
| The First Annual NWA Jim Crockett Sr. Memorial Cup Tag Team Tournament | 1986-04-19 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| WWC Aniversario ’88: A Hot Night in Bayamón | 1988-09-10 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| NWA Starrcade ’85: The Gathering | 1985-11-28 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| WCW Clash of The Champions XII: Fall Brawl ’90: Mountain Madness | 1990-09-05 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| WCW Clash of The Champions XIII: Thanksgiving Thunder | 1990-11-20 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| TWA Summer Sizzler II | 1991-08-03 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| SMW Volunteer Slam 1992 | 1992-05-22 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| SMW Fire on The Mountain 1992 | 1992-08-08 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| SMW Superbowl of Wrestling | 1995-08-04 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| WWE In Your House 5: Seasons Beatings | 1995-12-17 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| OVW Christmas Chaos | 2001-01-31 | Buddy Landel |
| Legends of Mid-South Wrestling | 2013-09-10 | “Nature Boy” Buddy Landel |
| WWE Raw | 1993-01-11 | Buddy Landel |