For many years, the frightening sound of a bullwhip's snap meant one thing in WWE: "Outlaw" Ron Bass was in the building. With the trusty Miss Betsy at his side, the rugged Texan used an aggressive old-school offense to intimidate and punish his unlucky opponents.

During his tenure with WWE in the late '80s, the battle-tested brawler participated in several historic matches which helped revolutionize the industry. In addition to being involved in the first-ever Survivor Series and Royal Rumble contests, Bass was involved in a Saturday Night's Main Event classic when he battled Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake in a Hair vs. Hair match. At the time, sports-entertainment was yet to reach its greatest heights, but "Outlaw" told WWE.com that you could feel something special was about to happen.

"I came from the time of regional territories and small-time promotions," said Bass. "I had heard of so many of these Superstars before, but I had never shared a ring with them before. I looked around and saw all these huge stars working for one company. It was just a magical feeling. That was the start of the WWE's rise."

After years and years on the road, which included a stretch of 104 straight days away from his home, the constant nagging injuries left the veteran with no choice but to hang up the bullwhip and face life after wrestling. For Bass, retirement meant returning to his home in Tampa, Fla., where he found religion, golf, and a place to put his bachelor's of science degree from Arkansas State University to work.

"Generally when a wrestler retires, they open a bar or a gym, but I didn't want to do that," said Bass. "I jumped into Florida's booming construction market, where I work as a sales rep for a major supply company. Business has been good, and things have worked out well. There is life after wrestling."

Living with his 13-year-old son, the Superstar of yesterday is left with no choice but to follow the Superstars of today. The current WWE roster offers a dramatic contrast to the days when Miss Betsy rested in Ron's corner, but the retired grappler is still happy to offer his endorsement.

"It's all about adrenaline now," said Bass. "These guys are always pushing the envelope and it's exciting to watch. It's awesome to watch them in action, and I tip my cap to them. The future is bright for WWE."