“Silent” Brian Mackney Passes Away at 77
Canadian enhancement wrestler “Silent” Brian Mackney has died at the age of 77. Known for being deaf, this unique trait earned him his nickname and became his trademark among fans.
Career Highlights
Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling announced his passing, honoring Mackney as a legend and a significant figure in Toronto wrestling.
MAPLE LEAF PRO is saddened to hear of the passing today of “Silent” Brian Mackney, a Maple Leaf Wrestling alumni and legend in Toronto.
Mackney was more than just a journeyman wrestler; he captured the hearts of Toronto fans during the 1970s and 1980s and gained international recognition. He competed in Japan for both New Japan Pro Wrestling and All-Japan Pro Wrestling and worked in multiple NWA territories, including Mid-Atlantic.
After WWF took over Toronto, Mackney continued wrestling for Vince McMahon in Toronto for several years.
Legacy and Personal Story
Despite being deaf, Brian Mackney excelled in professional wrestling, proving that his hearing impairment did not hinder his success. His achievements reflect perseverance and determination.
Remarkably, Brian Mackney accomplished all of this as a deaf person, showing that his hearing impairment would not slow him down – he rose above it all and accomplished what many do not.
He was born on September 10, 1948, in Hamilton and began his pro wrestling career in 1971 after training with The Love Brothers, Hartford (Wes Hutchings) and Reginald (Johnny Evans).
In May 2025, Mackney attended an event at the former Maple Leaf Gardens, a moment that organizers looked back on with pride.
We were humbled to have “Silent” Brian in attendance this past May for our event at the former Maple Leaf Gardens and we are proud of his place and legacy in Maple Leaf Wrestling history.
The wrestling community sends deepest condolences to Mackney’s family, friends, and fans during this time.
Summary
Brian Mackney’s journey as a deaf wrestler highlights his inspiring resilience and lasting impact on Toronto and international wrestling.