Joseph Luke Scarpa, born in Nutley, he was a professional wrestler who wrestled for
companies such as World Wrestling Entertainment and the National Wrestling Alliance.
He was a dominant force to be reckoned with, winning multiple championships, and
creating excitement for fans especially when starting his “war dance” and his signature
“tomahawk chop”. He was inducted into the World Wrestling Entertainment’s Hall of
Fame in 1994, the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2009, and the New England
Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2011.
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Mr. Scarpa’s illustrious professional wrestling career started in 1947 when he joinecl
the National Wrestling Alliance under the ring name “Joltin’Joe Scarpa.” He was a fan
favorite and individual and tag team champion at the NWA. He continued his success
by wrestling under the name the “Rebel” in this organization until the late 1960s.
Wrestling history was forever changed, when Scarpa accepted an offer from McMahon
and joined World Wrestling Entertainment in 1970. It was here that Scarpa took on
the persona of “Chief Jay Strongbow.” “The Chief ‘ wrestled alongside greats such as
George “theAnimal” Steele, “Superstar” Billy Graham, “Andre the Giant,” and Greg
“the Hammer” Valentine. Scarpa won multiple tag team championship belts at the
WWE and became a household name. He was also a favorite at Madison Square Garden
and other major venues across the country.
After wrestling for several decades professionally, Scarpa retired from wrestling in
1985, but continued,his involvement in the WWE. He worked as a road agent, and most
notably as a mentor to Native American wrestler, Christopher Chavis, whose ring name was “Tatanka.”
Scarpa passed away in 2012 at the age of 83.