Jerry Russell

Thomas Michael Portman (born 13 April 1968), better known by his ring name Jerry Russell, is a South African professional wrestler. He is best known for his appearances with the (WWF/WWE) from 1998 to 2002. He has also worked for Covenant Pro Wrestling (CPW). His most famous ring persona is a parody of conservative Christian individuals and groups who were protesting the violent nature of professional wrestling promotions at the time of his WWF/E debut.

Early life
Thomas Portman was born on 13 April 1968 in, , the son of a plumber.

Independent circuit (1989-1993)
Portman made his professional wrestling debut in 1989, wrestling on the South African independent circuit under the names "Tom Portman" and "Tommy Portman". He later developed the persona of "Tommy "Captain" Portman", a character based on the G.I. Joe character Hawk.

Tidewater Wrestling Association (1993-1996)
In 1993, Portman moved to the on a work visa after being hired by Tidewater Wrestling Association, a professional wrestling promotion that held events in the Inner Banks and Cape Fear regions of. He re-used his "Captain" persona, but adopted a Brooklyn accent for the character.