The Truth Behind the Dr. Zahorian Scandal and steroids in the WWF

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Professional wrestling in the 1980s thrived on the spectacle of towering physiques and Herculean strength. Wrestlers were not just athletes; they were icons whose images transcended the ring. To maintain these appearances, many turned to anabolic steroids. While some aimed to recover from injuries faster, others sought to enhance muscle mass and maintain a competitive edge.

Jake Roberts, a renowned WWE legend, recently opened up about the prevalence of steroid use during this period. On his podcast, The Snake Pit, Roberts candidly described how wrestlers accessed steroids with alarming ease, facilitated by Dr. George Zahorian.

“You would go into a room, and he’d have several suitcases in there,” Roberts revealed. “You’d tell him what you wanted, and he’d go through the suitcases, get it, package it up for you, and hand it to you.”

This transactional process normalized steroid use in the industry, exposing wrestlers to substances without adequate medical supervision or consideration for long-term health implications.

Dr. George Zahorian: A Central Figure in WWE’s Steroid Era​

Dr. George Zahorian, a licensed physician closely tied to WWE, was a pivotal figure in the steroid distribution network. His actions extended far beyond ethical medical practices, making him both a supplier and enabler of the rampant substance abuse within professional wrestling.

Zahorian’s approach blurred the line between doctor and dealer. By offering steroids directly to wrestlers in bulk, he bypassed legitimate medical protocols, creating an unregulated supply chain. His methods were as brazen as they were unethical, eventually drawing the attention of federal authorities.

In 1991, Zahorian was convicted of distributing illegal steroids and sentenced to three years in prison. The trial not only dismantled his operation but also exposed the extent to which performance-enhancing drugs permeated the wrestling industry.

Fallout for WWE: From Indictments to Industry Reform​

The scandal’s ripple effects went far beyond Zahorian’s conviction. WWE and its then-chairman, Vince McMahon, faced intense scrutiny. In 1993, McMahon was indicted on charges of distributing steroids to wrestlers under his employment.

While McMahon was acquitted in 1994, the trial painted a stark picture of the industry’s dark underbelly. Public perception shifted, with fans and critics alike questioning the integrity and health standards of professional wrestling.

The steroid scandal served as a catalyst for change within WWE. Recognizing the long-term risks associated with unchecked substance abuse, the organization implemented stricter drug testing protocols and wellness programs. These measures aimed to prioritize wrestler safety and promote a healthier, more sustainable approach to physical conditioning.

Broader Implications: Health Risks of Steroid Use​

The widespread use of steroids among wrestlers in the 1980s came with significant consequences. While short-term benefits included accelerated muscle growth and injury recovery, the long-term effects were far more detrimental.

Physical Consequences

• Cardiovascular Issues: Steroid abuse is linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, and increased cholesterol levels.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Prolonged use disrupts natural hormone production, leading to conditions like gynecomastia and testicular atrophy.
• Liver Damage: Steroids, particularly those taken orally, place immense strain on the liver.

Psychological Effects

• Aggression: Commonly referred to as “roid rage,” steroid-induced aggression often led to volatile behavior among users.
• Depression: The dependency on steroids coupled with withdrawal symptoms left many wrestlers battling severe mental health challenges.

Wrestling’s Modern Landscape: A Healthier Future​

Today, WWE and other wrestling organizations strive to distance themselves from the shadow of the steroid era. Robust drug testing policies, including partnerships with third-party agencies, have become standard. Furthermore, increased awareness of mental health and wellness has shifted the focus toward a more holistic approach to athlete care.