Juan Chavarría Galicia

Birthday: December 27, 1938

Death: November 15, 2007

Juan Chavarría Galicia, better known in the world of professional wrestling as Gran Marcus, was born on December 27, 1938, in Torreón, Coahuila, in the Laguna region, renowned for its significant contribution to Mexican wrestling. From a young age, he was trained by the legendary Halcón Suriano, debuting at the now-defunct Arena Charro Aguayo in Torreón against Manny Moñetones. Throughout his career, Markus became a prominent figure both in Mexico and the United States, achieving great success in the 1970s and 1980s. In Mexico, he secured major victories, including wins over Enrique Vera and Raúl Reyes at Arena México, as well as the historic mask match against José Lothario at the Plaza de Toros Monumental in Monterrey. His rivalry with Lothario was one of the most notable, continuing in the United States, where Markus also achieved numerous accolades, teaming up with figures like Gino Hernández, with whom he formed a legendary rudo tag team remembered by fans. In World Class Championship Wrestling (Texas), Markus faced high-profile opponents such as Danny Ortiz (El Halcón) and Kevin Von Erich, cementing his status as a top international star. Throughout his career, Markus won several championships, including the Texas Heavyweight Championship and the NWA American Tag Team Championship, known for his skill in the ring and his ability to create controversy both inside and outside the squared circle. His involvement in Mexican wrestling was also significant, being part of the legendary La Ola Blanca team alongside Ángel Blanco and Dr. Wagner, marking an era in the industry. In the final years of his career, Markus had one of his most intense rivalries with Aníbal, culminating in a mask vs. mask match where Markus was defeated. After years in the ring, his retirement came in 1990 due to a serious pancreatic illness. Despite his condition, Markus' strength helped him survive, though he had to step away from active competition. Post-retirement, he focused on renting out a wrestling ring and managing taxi-related businesses, all while cherishing his memories of wrestling and the great rivals he faced, such as Mil Máscaras and El Halcón. Contrary to rumors of his death in 2007, Markus remained alive until November of that year, when he passed away. His legacy endures in the minds of fans, who continue to remember and admire his contributions to wrestling both in Mexico and abroad.