Saturated Phat

Many contend that retired athletes ride the sports-memorabilia gravy train for the payola. We say they’re bored. Let’s take former NFL star William “The Refrigerator” Perry, since he’s handy. The Fridge was never the smartest appliance in the showroom, but an above-average talent propelled him to the phat land of...

By Clay McNear

May 15, 2008

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Many contend that retired athletes ride the sports-memorabilia gravy train for the payola. We say they’re bored. Let’s take former NFL star William “The Refrigerator” Perry, since he’s handy. The Fridge was never the smartest appliance in the showroom, but an above-average talent propelled him to the phat land of supermodels, limos -- even a G.I. Joe action figure bearing his likeness. Now, look what happened once those good looks went: Celebrity wrestling. Toughman boxing. Chef Tony infomercial. Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest (he lost!). C’mon, give the lonely lug some love – and $20 per autograph, ’cause a 400-pound man’s gotta eat.
Sat., May 17, 12:30-2 p.m., 2008

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