James Henry “Jim” Neidhart (February 8, 1955 - August 13, 2018) was an American professional fighter. He was best known for his performances in the 1980s and 1990s at the World Wrestling Federation. It was there that he performed under the name Jim "Anvil" Neidhart, became the two-time WWF team champion with Bret Hart as part of the Hart Fund team.
Start
At Newport Harbor High School, Neidhart received his first athletic recognition in athletics. He was the record holder among California middle school students in shot put, holding the championship from 1973 to 1985. After graduating, he was a member of the National Football League for some time, where he was part of teams such as the Auckland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys, participating in training and pre-season games.
Wrestling
After breaking up with the Dallas Cowboys, Jim Neidhart decided to go to Calgary, Alberta, to train with Stu Hart and engage in professional wrestling. From 1978 to 1983, he acted in his team, returned there in 1985 after marrying Ally Hart, who was the daughter of Stu.
Hart, in search of advertising for Neidhart, promised him $ 500 to compete in anvil throwing competitions. The victory earned him the nickname "Anvil", replacing his previous "Animal".
Training under the leadership of Stu Hart, the powerful Neydhart learned how to effectively use his physique and strength in the ring. In the early 1980s, he participated in competitions throughout North America and gained a reputation as a dangerous man with an unstoppable character.
Also, wrestler Jim "Anvil" Neidhart tried himself as an actor, he starred in the film and the series "Thunder in Paradise" and in the "Beach Zombie Party".
Personal life
Neidhart and his wife Ellie have three daughters - Jennifer, who works as a chef, Natalie and Kristen (Muffy). Natalie is also a professional wrestler and member of WWE.
On February 27, 2010, Neidhart was inducted into the Legends Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame by Jack Blaze in Wheeling, Virginia, at their LPW St. Valentine's Day Massacre.
He died on August 13, 2018 in his own home. His wife Elizabeth (Ellie) Neidhart told investigators that Jim had trouble sleeping. She got out of bed to adjust the thermostat. When she returned, she witnessed how Jim who got up in bed fell, having hit first on the wall, and then on the floor. She immediately dialed 911, believing he had a seizure for which he was taking medication. Neidhart had a ten-centimeter wound on his face. According to the sheriff of Pasco County, it was the fall that caused him death. He died at the age of 63.