Robert "Bob" Backlund was born on August 14, 1949. He was a standout athlete in high school and went on to win the NCAA Division 2 Amateur Wrestling Championship during his time at North Dakota State University, where he later earned a degree in physical education.
Little is known about what sparked Backlund's interest in turning to the pro wrestling circuit. He made his debut in the now defunct American Wrestling Association (AWA) in 1973.
Backlund was clean cut and had a very technical approach to his wrestling, quickly earning him babyface status among the crowds. After gaining critical success in the AWA, Backlund began wrestling around the country for the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA).
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