WWE Network and Peacock released Superfan: The Story of Vladimir this past weekend. The recently released documentary shines a spotlight on Vladimir Abouzeide, also known as one of the biggest superfans in professional wrestling. The documentary chronicles his experience of attending WWE events for over 30 years. It also focuses on his presence at ringside in WWE’s home arena, Madison Square Garden.
The documentary was originally scheduled to the premiere in 2021, but it encountered a delay. WWE presented Abouzeide with a prestigious award as recognition for his unwavering fandom. Moreover, Abouzeide’s presence as an iconic figure is something that WWE fans like to revisit again and again.
Vladimir Abouzeide became WWE’s first Superfan
Born in Haiti, Vladimir Abouzeide moved to Manhattan as a child and quickly embraced his passion for professional wrestling promoted by the WWF (now WWE). Abouzeide regularly attended Madison Square Garden shows. During an October 1986 edition of Piper’s Pit, he became famous for suggesting to Roddy Piper that he should partner with Hulk Hogan against Paul Orndorff and Harley Race.
For many years, Abouzeide turned up for every major WWE event, and everyone started calling him a dedicated wrestling fan. As such, his boundless enthusiasm truly distinguished him from all other fans. He frequently stood on his feet, enthusiastically cheering for the superstars who entered the ring.
One of his most unforgettable moments onscreen took place during the 1996 Survivor Series. Here, he motivated Sid just moments before his WWE title match, shouting enthusiastically, “You are the man! You are the man!” However, Abouzeide’s life turned upside down when COVID-19 struck, and he couldn’t attend LIVE WWE events.
Citing the documentary, Cageside Seats revealed that Abouzeide’s mother passed away during the COVID. After her death and with the world on lockdown due to the pandemic, he discovered himself without a place to go because the arenas were closed to common public. He openly admitted in the documentary (via Cageside Seats) that he made three suicide attempts before eventually seeking therapy.
Therapy assisted him, and as soon as WWE resumed LIVE events, he returned to his rightful place. He received an invitation to Wrestlemania 37 and was even presented with a framed WWE Championship belt.
Triple H shared the extraordinary moment on social media and tweeted, “What better way to welcome back the @WWE Universe at #WrestleMania than naming Vladimir our first-ever officially-certified superfan!!!! @StephMcMahon.”
Vladimir Abouzeide thanked everyone for showing love and respect
In a message shared with PWInsider, Vladimir Abouzeide publicly expressed his gratitude to fans for watching the documentary. He also extended his thanks to everyone who contributed to the film. Additionally, Abouzeide showed appreciation to his wrestling family as well as his biological family, dedicating the documentary to his late mother. He always desired to tell this story and expressed gratitude to everyone who made it possible.
Critics responded positively to the 37-minute documentary’s content. However, documentary is not the only thing WWE is doing for Abouzeide. Reports suggest that Vladimir is poised to have his very own action figure. The figure will emulate the style of the classic WWE Hasbro figures, incorporating Vladimir’s distinctive move of pointing his finger in the air. All sales proceeds from the action figure will directly assist in supporting Vladimir’s ongoing medical expenses in his battle against Parkinson’s Disease.
Superfan: The Story of Vladimir is currently available for streaming on WWE Network and Peacock.
