June Byers vs. the Queen: Wrestling’s Forgotten Power Struggle

This week on Getting Colour, Conor and Jeff dive deep into the squared circle’s untold history with wrestling historian John Cosper, author of “The Great and Inimitable June Byers.” (Available to purchase here.)

Was June Byers the rightful heir to the women's wrestling throne—or the product of backstage politicking and promotional betrayal? Cosper walks us through the rise of Byers from a Texas upstart to the woman who dared to challenge Mildred Burke, topple the Wolfe-Burke empire, and claim her place in wrestling lore. We break down the infamous 1954 title match, the murky alliances behind the curtain, and why Byers’ legacy has too often been pinned to the mat of history.

This one’s got drama, dirt, and dropkicks—so lace up, because we’re giving color to one of wrestling’s fiercest (and most misunderstood) champions.

We're back each and every month for another deep dive into the world of shorts and spandex. Check us out on Twitter/X @GettingColour or email us at gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff