Leroy Kemp

Wrestler

What is Leroy Kemp known for?

Born on December 24, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio, Leroy Kemp, also known as Lee Kemp, is a distinguished American freestyle wrestler. He embarked on his wrestling journey at Chardon High School in Ohio, where he had two undefeated seasons and won two Ohio state titles. Notably, his first state title included victories over the defending state champion and the previous year's state runner-up.

Following his high school career, Kemp's wrestling prowess took him to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Here, he was a four-time NCAA Division I National finalist, winning the championship three times. Kemp notably recorded 110 wins and no losses against collegiate competition during his last three years at the university. His success also extended to the international arena, where he became America's first three-time World Champion and a four-time World Cup Champion. During his career, he was a seven-time United States Freestyle National Champion.

Despite his impressive record, Kemp was unable to compete in the 1980 Olympics due to the United States' boycott of the games. His exceptional wrestling record has earned him recognition in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum and the United World Wrestling, formerly known as FILA, Hall of Fame.

Off the mat, Kemp co-founded LKNutrition, a nutritional supplement company, and was the subject of a film documentary, "Wrestled Away: The Lee Kemp Story". His remarkable journey from a high school student in Chardon, Ohio, to a distinguished wrestler is an inspiration.

Born as Darnell Freeman to a single mother, Kemp was adopted by Leroy Percy Kemp and his wife Jessie. They legally changed his name to Leroy P. Kemp, Jr. The family eventually moved to a farm in Chardon, Ohio after Leroy Jr. finished 6th grade. This move set the stage for Kemp's illustrious wrestling career.