Big Kat Round Bellies

The Big Kat Round Bellies, comprising Roundbelly Ray and Bubba Roundbelly, were an iconic tag team from Columbus, Ohio, who brought a delightful mix of humor and surprising agility to the GWA. Known for their comedic antics and larger-than-life personas, Ray and Bubba became beloved figures in the wrestling community, often playing the roles of loveable underdogs. Their in-ring style was a lively blend of traditional moves and improvised tactics, frequently highlighted by their physical size and humorous approach, making their matches highly entertaining.

What set the Big Kat Round Bellies apart, beyond their engaging performances, was their significance as one of the early multiracial tag teams in professional wrestling. This aspect of their partnership was revolutionary at the time, showcasing diversity and promoting inclusivity within the sport. Their multiracial composition not only enriched their appeal but also helped to challenge and gradually change wrestling's cultural narratives, making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience.

Throughout their careers, Roundbelly Ray and Bubba Roundbelly were not only competitors but also ambassadors of goodwill, often participating in community events and charity matches. Their memorable victory over the Renegade Riders at the Soul Power Olympic Brawl in 1972 remains a highlight of their wrestling journey, underscoring their capability to compete successfully against top-tier talent. Despite never clinching the top titles, the Big Kat Round Bellies left an indelible mark on the GWA, celebrated for their joyful approach to the sport and their groundbreaking role in promoting diversity and inclusion in the ring.

Formation of the Team

The story of the Round Bellies began at Ohio State University in the fall of 1970, far from any wrestling ring. Both Ray and Bubba were freshmen, navigating the bustling campus life, when their paths repeatedly crossed in an unexpected venue: the university dining hall. Sharing a mutual appreciation for hearty meals, they found themselves seated at the same table during lunch hour, drawn together by their jovial natures and, humorously, their similar physiques.

As they chatted, Ray and Bubba discovered more common interests; both were avid fans of pro wrestling and both had dabbled on high school wrestling teams, albeit more for fun than competition due to their sizes. Their friendship quickly deepened, marked by long conversations about wrestling legends and spirited debates over ring tactics. They began attending local Big Time Wrestling shows together, cheering wildly from the stands, their enthusiasm for the sport undimmed by the professional wrestlers' sleek physiques and polished maneuvers.

The decision to form a professional tag team came naturally; wrestling had forged a bond between them that felt both inevitable and deeply rewarding. They chose the name "Big Kat Round Bellies" as a playful nod to their journey—a journey that began over shared meals and grew into a shared dream. By the time they left Ohio State, they were not only best friends but also partners, ready to take on the professional wrestling world with their unique blend of humor, heart, and hefty belly slams. The GWA might not have been ready for them, but they were more than ready to make their mark, together.

Appearance

The Round Bellies were known for their distinctive physical appearances which matched their larger-than-life personas in the wrestling world. Both wrestlers were notably overweight, giving the team its name and unique appeal in the ring.

Roundbelly Ray: Ray was the slightly taller of the duo, standing at about 6 feet 2 inches. He had a broad, imposing frame weighing around 320 pounds, which added a dramatic flair to his movements. His skin was a dark umber with rich earthy undertone, and he sported a closely trimmed black beard that framed his round face. Ray's hair was kept short and neat, usually styled in the fashion of the times. His ring attire often included brightly colored trunks, usually in vibrant reds or blues, paired with matching knee pads and a humorous graphic t-shirt that played on his size with witty slogans.

Bubba Roundbelly: Bubba stood around 6 feet tall and weighed approximately 310 pounds. His complexion was lighter, and he typically wore his sandy blonde hair long, often tied back in a ponytail to keep it under control while wrestling. Bubba's facial features included a wide, friendly smile and clear blue eyes that exuded warmth and approachability. He preferred to wear standard black or dark green wrestling trunks, which he accessorized with custom-made, oversized boots that showcased his personality through unique, often humorous embellishments.

Both wrestlers embraced their size as part of their charm, and their ring gear frequently included comedic elements that highlighted their jovial natures. Despite their hefty physiques, both Ray and Bubba were surprisingly agile, capable of executing moves that defied their size, contributing to their popularity and unexpected in-ring success. Their physical presence, combined with their charismatic and approachable demeanors, made them a hit with fans, ensuring that the Big Kat Round Bellies remained unforgettable figures in professional wrestling.