Kurt Angle is an American retired professional and amateur wrestler, known for his remarkable transformation from Olympic gold medalist to WWE legend.
Born in 1968, Angle rose to fame after winning the gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, an achievement made even more extraordinary considering he competed with a serious neck injury. .
He then transitioned to professional wrestling, becoming a prominent figure in WWE with his technical prowess and ability to entertain audiences as both a villain and a hero.
Over a career spanning decades, Angle also made his mark in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) before returning to WWE, where he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017. December 9, 1968.
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- Full name: Kurt Steven Angle
- Date of birth: December 9, 1968
- Age: 56 years old
- Gender: Male
- Birthplace: Town of Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, USA
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Professional and amateur wrestler, retired actor
- Height: 6’0″ (183 cm)
- Parents: Jackie Angle (mother), David Angle (father)
- Siblings: Eric, Mark, David, Johnny and Le’Anne (deceased)
- Spouse: Giovanna Yannotti (current), Karen Smedley (divorced)
- Children: Kyra Corner, Kody Corner, Giuliana Marie Corner, Sophia Laine Corner, Nikoletta Sky Corner
- Relationship status: Married
- Religion: Christianity
- Ethnicity: German, English, Irish, Italian, Lithuanian
- Net worth: 5 million USD
Early life and education
Kurt Steven Angle was born on December 9, 1968 in Mt. Lebanon Township, Pennsylvania. He grew up as the youngest child in a family of five brothers. Angle’s childhood was shaped by tragedy when his father, David Angle, died in a construction accident when Kurt was just 16 years old. He later dedicated much of his success to the memory of his father. Additionally, his older sister Le’Anne passed away in 2003, which further affected his motivation and resilience.
Angle excelled in sports from a young age, especially football and wrestling, while attending Mt. Lebanon. He continued his academic and athletic pursuits at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a degree in education and became a two-time NCAA Division I Wrestling Champion. As a three-time NCAA All-American and member of the 1987 Junior World team, Angle established himself as an elite amateur wrestler.
Personal life
Kurt Angle’s personal life has always been the focus of public attention, especially his relationships and family. He is married to Karen Smedley, with whom he shares two children, Kyra and Kody. After divorcing in 2008, Angle married actress Giovanna Yannotti in 2012. They have three daughters together: Giuliana, Sophia and Nikoletta.
Angle met Giovanna Yannotti on set and the couple have since prioritized family life despite Angle’s demanding acting and wrestling career.
Career
Kurt Angle began his career as an amateur wrestler, winning awards such as the 1995 World Wrestling Championship and an iconic gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the Olympics 1996 conference. His victory in Atlanta, achieved while competing with a broken neck, cemented his reputation as one of the toughest athletes in wrestling history.
In 1998, Angle transitioned to professional wrestling, joining WWE (then WWF). He debuted in 1999 and quickly rose to fame, winning major titles, including the WWE Championship and the King of the Ring tournament in 2000. Known for his technical ability and comedic timing , Angle had memorable feuds with legends like The Rock, Shawn Michaels and Brock Lesnar.
After leaving WWE in 2006, Angle joined TNA, where he became a six-time TNA World Heavyweight Champion and contributed to the promotion’s growth. In 2017, he returned to WWE as Raw General Manager and then competed in his retirement match at WrestleMania 35 in 2019.
prize
- Olympic gold medal in freestyle wrestling (1996)
- Two-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion (1990, 1992)
- WWE Championship (4 times)
- TNA World Heavyweight Championship (six times)
- King of the WWE Ring (2000)
- WWE Hall of Fame Inductees (2017)
Net worth
Kurt Angle’s net worth is estimated at $5 million. His wealth comes from his wrestling career, acting roles, and endorsements. Selling his autobiography, speaking engagements and appearing in advertisements also contributed to his financial success.
Argumentative
Despite his achievements, Kurt Angle faced many challenges, including substance abuse issues. Injuries sustained during his wrestling career led to his dependence on painkillers, leading to a temporary addiction to Vicodin. Angle sought rehabilitation and openly discussed his struggles to inspire others.
He also faced legal problems, including multiple DUIs, which brought criticism and scrutiny from the media. Angle has taken steps toward recovery and is committed to staying sober, using his experience to advocate for athlete health.
Additionally, Angle’s departure from WWE in 2006 was controversial, stemming from disagreements over his physical condition and work schedule. However, he reconciled with the company, culminating in his induction into the Hall of Fame in 2017.
Social Media
- Instagram: @therealkurtangle
- Twitter: @RealKurtAngle
Cinema
- End of the game (2009)
- River of darkness (2011)
- combatant (2011)
- Pain & Gain (2013)
- Sharknado 2: The second one (2013)
Book
- It’s the truth! It’s the truth! (2001)
