Former professional wrestler turned Morrisons manager Kevin Smith has condemned the supermarket chain for sacking a store boss who tackled a shoplifter. Smith, 66, who wrestled as Sgt Sizzler for 20 years and once faced Big Daddy, worked as a loss prevention manager at Morrisons, using his wrestling skills to handle thieves. The 6ft 1in, 18-stone former grappler encountered shoplifters armed with knives and syringes during his retail career.
Support for Sean Egan
Smith has spoken out in support of Sean Egan, the Morrisons manager from Aldridge, Walsall, who was dismissed after making contact with a thief's face when the raider spat at him. Egan's firing triggered widespread condemnation from shoppers, politicians, and even the Metropolitan Police chief.
The ex-wrestler from Market Drayton, Shropshire, said Egan 'did the right thing' and revealed he was so incensed by the treatment that he is now boycotting his former employer. 'Being spat on is an assault. To sack him was absolutely ridiculous,' Smith told BirminghamLive.
Wrestling Career and Retail Life
Smith's wrestling career began by chance when a promoter asked him to replace a fighter stuck in traffic, leading to his 'Sgt Sizzler' persona based on looking like an 'evil b*****d' traffic cop. He later brought his physical skills to retail, admitting: 'I used wrestling moves on shoplifters.'
The former loss prevention manager described facing dangerous situations, saying: 'I've had knives pulled on me, syringes pulled on me, shoplifters even damaged my car.' Despite being older now, Smith maintains: 'I can still handle myself, I'm just a bit slower.'
Morrisons was approached for comment by BirminghamLive.
