Brian Mackney Passes Away at 77

Canadian wrestling icon “Silent” Brian Mackney, known for his remarkable career despite being mute, has passed away at the age of 77. Mackney defied the odds as a professional wrestler for 26 years after being trained by Love Brother Johnny Evans.

Although he never reached main event status, Mackney gained fame alongside notable wrestlers like “Iron” Mike Sharpe and The Brooklyn Brawler. He was primarily known in Canada as enhancement talent for Jack and Frank Tunney’s Maple Leaf Wrestling and the WWF.

International Wrestling Career

Brian Mackney also competed internationally in Japan with New Japan Pro Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling. He was the first deaf wrestler ever employed by the WWE, breaking important barriers in the sport.

Recognition and Tribute

In 2019, Mackney received a lifetime achievement award from Great White North Wrestling for his contributions to pro 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 a journeyman, who not only won the hearts of the Toronto fans in the 1970s and 1980s, but gained attention around the world, competing in Japan with both New Japan Pro Wrestling and All-Japan Pro Wrestling. He also worked various territories of the NWA, including Mid-Atlantic. When the WWF took over Toronto, Silent Brian continued working in Toronto for Vince McMahon for several years. 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.

Mackney’s career is a testament to overcoming challenges and making a lasting impact on professional wrestling.

Author’s Summary

Brian Mackney, a deaf Canadian wrestling legend, overcame significant challenges to build a 26-year career, earning respect worldwide and breaking barriers in the wrestling world.

Slam Wrestling — 2025-11-08