The world of professional wrestling has witnessed numerous characters, but none as bold, mesmerizing, and authentic as “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair.
His legacy will forever be etched in the annals of wrestling history as one of the most influential figures in the industry.
In an upcoming ESPN 30 for 30 documentary premiering Tuesday night, director Rory Karpf delves into the life of The Nature Boy.
Through interviews with a myriad of individuals including fellow wrestlers, wrestling executives, family members, friends, and fans, a comprehensive portrait of Flair emerges.
Scheduled to be broadcast on ESPN at 10:00 p.m.
ET, viewers can catch the documentary via online streaming or on their mobile devices through Watch ESPN.
According to Flair and those close to him, embodying The Nature Boy persona was not merely a role he played on screen; it became a lifestyle that consumed his existence, nearly leading to his demise.
In the documentary, which emphasizes Flair’s vulnerabilities alongside his strengths, the 68-year-old discloses that during his relentless travels for wrestling shows, he would typically consume 10 beers and five cocktails daily—a routine he maintained for years.
Flair once sought the counsel of a psychologist, who was astounded by the extent of his alcohol intake.
During the session, Flair recalled, “[The psychologist inquired], ‘How much do you drink each day?’
I replied, ‘I usually have around 10 beers and about five mixed drinks.’
He then asked, ‘How often do you engage in this behavior?’
I responded, ‘Every single day.’
He seemed bewildered, ‘Every day?’
I clarified, ‘Yes, every day.
I work daily.
I start with a beer in the car, proceed with vodka once I reach the hotel.’
His reaction was intense; he exclaimed, ‘You consume alcohol every day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, and you’ve been doing this for how long?’
I calculated, ‘Well, it’s 1989 now, I began in ’72.
You can do the math.
Almost 20 years.’
He expressed disbelief, ‘That’s improbable.’
I retorted, ‘Oh, it’s true.’
By the end of our conversation, he was reclined on the couch while I sat in the chair continuing our dialogue.”
Flair, a four-time husband, also asserts that he engaged in intimate relations with 10,000 women throughout his lifetime.
