If You Don't Buy This Book Everybody Dies

by Tracy Smothers, John Cosper

He’s been hired and fired from every major wrestling company. He’s wrestled all over the United States, in Mexico, and Asia. He’s held multiple tag team belts and heavyweight championships. He’s been a top guy and a jobber. He’s been a hero, a villain, and a mentor to countless young wrestlers of the last two generations. He pinned legends. He defeated cancer. And yes, he wrestled three different bears. Few wrestlers have logged as many miles as Tracy Smothers, and even fewer have made the impact he has on today’s young stars. Now for the first time, Tracy reveals how a promising young athlete Springfield, Tennessee, who once aspired to be a high school football coach found himself at the center of a fan riot in Mexico City and a bar fight in Malaysia. He talks about the last days of the territories, the rise of the Wild Eyed Southern Boys and the Young Pistols, his star turn in Smoky Mountain, his jobbing days in WWF, life-changing concussions, the FBI in ECW, and dance contests in the indies. You’ll hear harrowing tales about bounty hunting, delivering pizzas, and yes… going toe to toe with the legendary Ginger the Wrestling Bear. Tracy Smothers doesn’t care if you love him. He doesn’t care if you think he sucks. He doesn’t even really care if you read his book. There’s only one thing you need to know right now. If you don’t buy this book, EVERYBODY DIES!

314 pages, Paperback

Published March 20, 2020

Reviews

[Jason Weber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, easy read by a guy who’s been there and done everything! Never a “superstar” but a hard worker and great guy who helped a bunch of people throughout his career.
Like most wrestling bio/autobios they never disappoint, and this one sure didn’t.
RIP Tracy. You will be missed.

[Tony Farinella · Rating 2 out of 5]

When reviewing a book like this, it’s important to consider the context. Tracy Smothers was battling cancer when author John Cosper wrote the book based on his audio recordings. I don’t think it’s fair to judge the book too harshly, but I wish it had been written sooner and when Tracy was in better health. Sadly, he passed away in 2020.

When the book works, it’s an entertaining and insightful read. But it’s often plagued by typos, historical errors, and a sense of rambling and incoherent storytelling.

I understand the circumstances surrounding the book, but it’s tough to read for the reasons I’ve mentioned. Tracy worked for every major promotion in the United States and also did a number of international tours. I’m sure the author did his best, but it’s hard to read because it’s all over the place.

[Richard Joseph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great memories and life lessons

Tracy Smothers gabe a great insight into the life of a wrestler and the sacrifices to remain doing what he loves. His stories are entertaining and his life lessons are on point. More than a great wrestler he is a better teacher.

[Jason Presley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Typos aside, I so much wish I could give this book 6 or 7 stars. Tracy was a true, down-to-Earth, legend. I only got to see him live twice, but both times were magic. The business need a lot more Tracy Smotherses.

[xAndyPandax · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent with some very funny and interesting stories. RIP Tracy Smothers