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Kenny "Jay" Benkowski, who was a regular undercard performer for Verne Gage's AWA during the latter end of the promotion's run, passed away at 85 years old this week.
Benkowski's passing was announced by announcer Mick Karch, who noted, "My friends, this is one of the most difficult announcements I have ever had to make. Our dear friend Kenny Jay passed away this morning. I am crushed and devastated. The world has lost a beautiful soul. Rest in peace, Kenny, and I cherish the years of friendship"
Born in March 1937 in Minnesota, Jay lettered in shot put and football in High School. After time in the United States military, he was trained by Verne Gagne and Bob Hawkins and began making appearances as an enhancement talent on the AWA's weekly TV tapings and live events. His role was to take the newcomers and make sure they looked dominant on TV to give them a strong initial push into the territory, especially if they were earmarked to work with Verne Gagne on top. Known as "The Sodbuster", that nickname came from his own landscaping business.
When Muhammad Ali was touring different promotions to drum up interest in his boxing vs. wrestling match against Antonio Inoki, he fought Jay in what was probably Jay's most high profile match of all time. Jay left the business in 1985 but returned to the AWA in 1990 towards the end of the promotion, teaming with Jake "Milkman" Milliman. He occassionally wrestled through 2012.
On behalf of everyone at PWInsider.com, we express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and fans of Kenny Jay.
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