“He was a special breed, who was highly regarded by those who knew him, “ said CAC president Red Bastein. "A lot of the younger fans might not recognize his name, but I can assure you he was a very important part of the business."

Malcolm “Balk” Estes was born on March 8, 1913 in Roger Mills County, Oklahoma. From 1929 to 1932 he lettered in football as the captain of his high school football team. During his senior year he made All-State as a tackle. He also lettered in wrestling all four years, garnering one conference championship and one state championship. Upon graduation, Malcolm entered the University of Oklahoma where he competed on the wrestling team.

In 1935, Balk journeyed to California in search of prosperity and a pro wrestling career. Through the coach of a former wrestling rival he met Hugh Nichols, the local promoter. Luck was on Balk's side, as someone got sick and they needed a fill in for the upcoming Friday night show. His first match took place on Santa Catalina Island against Billy Red Lyons. A few nights later he wrestled Al Karsak (who later promoted in Hawaii) at the Hollywood Legion Stadium. After a short stint in California he traveled to Mississippi to work for Billy Romanoff and then to Tennessee to work for Roy Welch.

Some of the high points of his in ring career included challenging World Middleweight champ, Gus Kallio and World Junior Heavyweight champ Leroy McGuirk. He also held Light heavyweight champ Rex Mobliy to a two hour draw. He was occasionally billed as “Pretty Boy,” and employed the Alligator Clutch as his finisher.

In 1952 Balk turned his hand to promoting in the Hammond, Indiana area. He continued to wrestle into the late fifties He joined forces with Jim Barnett in 1958 and they promoted the Indiana/Ohio area into the mid 60s.

In 1964 Balk traveled to Amarillo, TX to book for his old friend Dory Funk Sr. He had known Funk since the early 40s when they were both young and hungry journeymen. While in Amarillo, Balk introduced his friend Dory to Kal Farlhey and the Texas Sheriff’s Boys Ranch was formed. Like many other wrestlers/promoters Balk had a hand in bringing other young wrestlers into the business, the most notable would be fellow Native American Wahoo McDaniel. Balk moved back to Indiana after about a year and retired from wrestling all together.

A lifetime member of the Cauliflower Alley Club, Balk worked in the security business and then later bought a service station and used car lot. He officially retired at the tender young age of 80. Balk was an avid fitness enthusiast riding his bicycle several miles a day.

We at the CAC send our condolences to the family and friends of Balk Estes.