Reading Through the Soul: Book Review: “True Lies and Alibis” by Black Jack Mulligan (B.J. Windham)

Book Review: “True Lies and Alibis” by Black Jack Mulligan (B.J. Windham)

“True Lies and Alibis” is a riveting memoir by legendary wrestler Black Jack Mulligan, born B.J. Windham. Known for his larger-than-life persona in the wrestling world, Mulligan brings that same intensity and drama to the pages of his autobiography. This book is not just for fans of professional wrestling; it’s a compelling read for anyone interested in the backstage stories of the sport, personal reflections on a colorful career, and the raw honesty of a man who lived a life full of ups, downs, and wild adventures.

The title itself, “True Lies and Alibis,” is a perfect reflection of the book’s tone. Mulligan weaves together a tapestry of true stories, half-truths, and vivid memories from his decades in the wrestling business. His writing style is straightforward, unapologetic, and engaging, giving readers a glimpse into the chaos of life in the ring, but also in the world beyond it. What stands out in this memoir is the way Mulligan doesn’t shy away from the more controversial and darker aspects of his life.

B.J. Windham’s journey through the wrestling world began in the 1960s, and Mulligan takes readers through his experiences with famous wrestlers, promoters, and the personal toll that the business took on him. He talks candidly about the challenges of balancing fame, family, and the lifestyle of a professional wrestler. Mulligan’s personal story is peppered with anecdotes about the wrestling legends he worked with, such as Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes, and Hulk Hogan, among others, giving fans a backstage pass to the world they loved as kids.

In addition to the wrestling tales, Mulligan discusses the highs and lows of his personal life with a brutal honesty that’s refreshing and rare in autobiographies. He opens up about his struggles with family issues, personal demons, and the difficulties he faced when he tried to transition away from the wrestling ring. Mulligan does not paint himself as a saint—he’s blunt about his flaws, mistakes, and regrets, but that vulnerability only makes him more human and relatable.

While the book is certainly for wrestling aficionados, it also provides insight into the human side of someone who has been through more than his fair share of turmoil and triumphs. His reflections on loyalty, camaraderie, and the price of fame are poignant, showing a man who was shaped by his environment but never fully defined by it. Mulligan’s journey from the wrestling ring to the quieter, sometimes more complicated moments in his life, makes “True Lies and Alibis” an honest and emotionally resonant read.

The pacing of the memoir is steady, though at times the transitions between stories can feel abrupt. Some readers may find themselves wanting more depth in certain parts of Mulligan’s journey, especially when it comes to his post-wrestling life. But overall, the memoir provides a great balance of entertainment, drama, and personal reflection.

In conclusion, “True Lies and Alibis” is a must-read for any wrestling fan, but it’s also a powerful memoir for those interested in the price of fame, the nature of professional wrestling, and the complexities of life after the spotlight fades. Black Jack Mulligan’s candidness, self-awareness, and storytelling ability make this an engaging and thought-provoking book that will stay with readers long after they’ve finished the final page.

I am/was a huge wrestling fan back in the 80’s. Black Jack Mulligan was a little before my time, when he wrestles as the Black Jacks with Black Jack Lenza. But, I have always been a huge fan of his and his son, Barry Windham.