The roar of the crowd, the clash of titans, the Cold War-era villainy– these are the images that likely spring to mind when the name Nikolai Volkoff is mentioned. For wrestling fans of a certain era, Volkoff, often paired with the likes of the Iron Sheik, was a formidable and heat-generating force, a symbol of Soviet strength in the squared circle that went head to head with Hulk Hogan in 1985. But beyond the bombastic persona and the signature rendition of the Soviet national anthem, there was another side to Josip Nikolai Peruzović, a man who found a quiet and fulfilling life in Maryland, far removed from the wrestling ring (per Steve Stasiak of Book Pro Wrestlers).
Born in Yugoslavia (now Croatia), Peruzović embarked on his professional wrestling journey in the late 1960s, eventually adopting the menacing “Nikolai Volkoff” moniker. With his imposing physique and believable anti-American rhetoric, he became a prominent figure in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) during the 1970s and 1980s. He captured the WWF Tag Team Championship alongside the Iron Sheik at the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985, a moment etched in wrestling history.
Volkoff’s career spanned decades, evolving with the times and showcasing his adaptability within the ever-changing landscape of professional wrestling. While he embraced the villainous roles that brought him fame, those who knew him outside the ring painted a picture of a kind and generous individual.
This gentler side of Nikolai Volkoff truly shined through during his nearly two-decade-long career with Baltimore County, Maryland. While fans across the globe chanted their disapproval at his on-screen antics, Volkoff was quietly serving his local community. His most well-known role within the county was as a building code inspector. This might seem a far cry from the wrestling ring, but according to a heartfelt recollection from someone who knew him, Volkoff approached this job with a unique sense of empathy.
Far from being a stickler for the rules and eager to issue fines, Volkoff reportedly preferred to find ways to help people comply with regulations. This often went above and beyond the call of duty. Imagine the imposing figure of Nikolai Volkoff not just pointing out violations, but actually cutting the grass for an elderly resident struggling to maintain their property, or using his skills as an electrician (a trade he practiced in his home country) to help someone with their wiring. These anecdotes paint a picture of a man with a strong sense of community and a genuine desire to assist those in need, a stark contrast to the intimidating character he portrayed on television.
Later in his tenure with Baltimore County, Volkoff transitioned to the Parks Department, where he took on grounds work and the responsibility of repairing tools. This further highlights his down-to-earth nature and willingness to engage in practical, hands-on work.
Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of Volkoff’s time in Maryland was his involvement with the Police Athletic League (PAL). This role allowed him to directly impact the lives of children whose parents were working. He dedicated his time to helping them with their homework and introducing them to various sports. This image of the feared wrestling heel patiently guiding children with their studies or teaching them the fundamentals of a game offers a beautiful perspective on the man behind the character.
Jason Strecker of Book Pro Wrestlers also shared a personal memory of visiting Volkoff during his early hours at the office when he worked for PAL. During this time, he would often be alone, answering phone calls. This quiet period provided an opportunity for friends to visit. On one such occasion, the contributor brought a friend named Billy, a devoted wrestling fan, to meet his hero.
The encounter was a testament to Volkoff’s genuine warmth. He graciously signed a photo for Billy and, in a delightful glimpse into the backstage world of professional wrestling, showed him card magic tricks, a known hobby of his among his peers. This simple act of kindness left a lasting impression, showcasing a personal and engaging side of the wrestling legend that many fans never had the chance to witness.
Nikolai Volkoff passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy both in the wrestling world and within his adopted community in Maryland. While he will forever be remembered for his iconic wrestling persona, the stories of his quiet dedication to his work with Baltimore County, his willingness to help others, and his gentle interactions with fans offer a richer and more complete portrait of the man behind the boos. His time in Maryland reveals a heart far larger than the wrestling ring, a testament to the fact that even the most formidable villains can possess a quiet kindness that leaves a lasting impact on those around them.
