John "Muscles" England successfully competed in many bodybuilding contests.
Amongst his titles were: Mr.Europe 1972, Mr.Adonis ATV 1973, Mr.England 1975, Mr.Central Britain 1976 and Mr.Midlands (6 times).
He would often entertain the wrestling audience, and antagonise his opponent, by flexing and posing in the ring long after the bell had sounded to start the contest.

 

First televised bout.   Opponent: Tally Ho Kaye.   Result: Lost by a pinfall in third round

 

6nš 5 minute rounds "best of three falls" bout.   Opponent: Pat Patton.   Score: England took the lead with a backbreaker submission in round 4, but Patton equalised with only 15 seconds remaining in the sixth and final round, with a pinfall.

 

5 minute contest, quarter final in a knockout tournament for wrestlers under 180lbs.    Opponent: Pat Patton.    Score: No pinfalls or submissions gained. Referee Freddie Green adjudged Patton to be the winner on greater 'skill & aggression'.

 

Opponent: Sammy "Kwik Kick" Lee   A fast-moving all-action contest, with plenty of throws by both men. As Lee began to use his high kicks, an out-of-sorts England decided he'd had enough, slipped out of the ring and walked back to the dressing room with referee Max Ward counting him out.


Many thanks to Robert Groom for the 'posing' photograph.
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