Abraham Lincoln Was a Champion Wrestler

Before becoming the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln was an accomplished wrestler — and an incredibly successful one at that. According to historical records, Lincoln participated in over 300 wrestling matches during his younger years and is said to have lost only once. 

Growing up in rural Illinois, Lincoln was tall, lanky, and surprisingly strong. Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall — unusually tall for his time — he quickly gained a reputation for being physically powerful and agile. In fact, his strength and athleticism made him a local legend in New Salem, where he often accepted challenges from others eager to test their skills against him in the ring. 

Wrestling in Lincoln’s day wasn’t the organized sport we know today. It was more of a rough-and-tumble, no-rules style of grappling known as “catch-as-catch-can.” Matches could be grueling and intense, and Lincoln’s dominance in this style earned him widespread respect. In one famous match, he defeated local champion Jack Armstrong — a bout that secured his reputation as the man not to mess with. 

His wrestling career was so notable that, in 1992, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame honored Abraham Lincoln with an “Outstanding American” award, recognizing his achievements in the sport and his later contributions as a leader. 

While Lincoln’s political legacy is unmatched, his athletic past shows a different side of the man known for his wisdom and oratory. It also reflects key traits — determination, resilience, and humility — that would define his leadership during one of America’s most difficult periods. 

So yes, it’s true: one of the greatest presidents in U.S. history was also one of the toughest athletes of his time.