Ric Drasin, a bodybuilding legend, actor, stuntman, wrestler, and the designer of the iconic Gold’s Gym logo, passed away on August 30, 2020, at the age of 76. He had been hospitalized for several weeks due to kidney and breathing problems. His death was announced by his children on his Facebook page, who described him as a “father, role model, and friend”.
A Life of Fitness and Entertainment
Drasin was born on July 12, 1944, in Bakersfield, California. He developed an interest in bodybuilding, powerlifting, weightlifting, and guitar playing in his junior high school. He also formed a band called The Epics, which later changed its name to The Hollywood Vines and recorded two songs with Capitol Records.
Drasin enlisted in the Army Reserves for eight years and served as a clerk/typist and driver. After his service, he focused on fitness and began teaching classes on nutrition and exercise at the YMCA. He also worked as an instructor and manager at various gyms in Bakersfield.
Drasin made his professional wrestling debut in 1965 as Babyface “Dick Alan” against Buddy “Killer” Austin. He later adopted the ring name of Ric Drasin or The Equalizer and wrestled for various promotions such as NWA, WWE, AWF, CCW, and GCW. He won several championships and retired from wrestling in 2001.
Drasin also had a successful career as a bodybuilder, personal trainer, actor, and stuntman. He trained with some of the greats such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno, and Franco Columbu in the 1960s and ’70s. He also appeared in several movies and TV shows such as The Incredible Hulk, Conan the Barbarian, The Fall Guy, The Streets of San Francisco, and more. He was also the creator of the famous Gold’s Gym logo and the World Gym gorilla logo.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Education
Drasin was not only a fitness and entertainment icon but also a mentor and teacher to many aspiring athletes and performers. He wrote several books on bodybuilding, wrestling, and promotion. He also hosted his own online show called Ric’s Corner, where he shared his insights and advice on various topics related to fitness, health, nutrition, lifestyle, and wrestling.
Drasin was widely respected and admired by his fans and peers for his passion, dedication, knowledge, humor, and generosity. He received many awards and honors for his achievements and contributions to the fitness and entertainment industry. He was also inducted into several halls of fame such as the World Bodybuilding Guild Hall of Fame (2006), the Joe Weider Hall of Fame (2012), the Muscle Beach Hall of Fame (2015), and the International Association of Resistance Trainers Hall of Fame (2016).
Drasin’s death was mourned by many people who expressed their condolences and gratitude for his influence and inspiration. His family requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in his memory.
Ric Drasin was a true legend who lived a remarkable life of fitness and entertainment. He left behind a legacy of inspiration and education that will continue to benefit generations to come.
