Dark Side of the Ring looks ready to tackle another major name from wrestling history, and this time the spotlight appears to be on the late Ray Traylor, better known to fans as the Big Boss Man.
The producers recently dropped a cryptic Instagram story that quickly caught attention, showing a Big Boss Man action figure sitting in a dimly lit room surrounded by flashing red and blue police lights. With professional cameras visible in the shot, the message was clear — this wasn’t random, and all signs point to Traylor being featured in an upcoming episode.
The teaser fits perfectly with the tone of the series, which has built its reputation by diving deep into some of the most controversial, emotional, and complicated stories in professional wrestling. Produced by Vice Studios Canada, the show has covered everything from personal tragedies to behind-the-scenes scandals, often using firsthand accounts from family members and industry veterans to tell the full story.
Now heading into its seventh season, the series continues to expand its reach, and Big Boss Man’s career offers no shortage of material. Traylor built his legacy across multiple eras, starting in Jim Crockett Promotions before becoming Big Bubba Rogers, the silent enforcer aligned with Jim Cornette.
His rise hit another level when he joined WWE in 1988 as the Big Boss Man, a corrections officer character that stood out immediately. Known for his aggressive style and memorable visuals — including handcuffing opponents to the ropes — he quickly became a key figure during one of WWE’s hottest periods. His run included alliances like The Twin Towers alongside Akeem, as well as high-profile rivalries involving Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage before transitioning into a fan favorite role.
Traylor later found success in WCW, where he worked under multiple identities including The Boss and The Guardian Angel, and became part of major factions like the nWo. He eventually returned to WWE in 1998 with a darker presentation, aligning with Vince McMahon’s Corporation and taking part in some of the company’s most controversial storylines, including the infamous feud with Big Show that pushed the boundaries of taste.
Outside the ring, Traylor lived a much different life. Born in Marietta, Georgia, he was known for being deeply committed to his family and community, organizing memorial efforts following the September 11 attacks and maintaining strong ties to his roots.
Traylor passed away on September 22, 2004, at just 41 years old after suffering a heart attack. More than a decade later, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2016, with his wife and daughters accepting the honor.
With Dark Side of the Ring known for pulling back the curtain on both the highs and the difficult realities behind the business, a deep dive into Big Boss Man’s life could reveal stories many fans have never heard before.
Do you think Big Boss Man’s career has been properly appreciated over the years, or is this the kind of episode that could change how fans view his legacy? Let us know your thoughts below.