Welding Shop Manager Jimmy K. (aka ‘King Cobra’) Retires After 55 Years


Our Memphis Division is celebrating the career of Jimmy K. this week, as he is set to retire on Friday, May 29. Jimmy has made countless contributions to the Company over the past 55 years and has a strong work ethic evidenced by his spotless attendance record. He’s only taken one sick day in his entire career! (He took it in 1985 after breaking his right leg.)

This week, two local media outlets in Memphis have paid tribute to Jimmy – as he’s known as a local legend due to his moonlighting job as a professional wrestler. Remarkably, Jimmy wrestled during his free time while holding down his full-time job at Republic. He wrestled under the name King Cobra, with some of the biggest names in the sport, including Andre the Giant, Junkyard Dog and Hulk Hogan. And he won  championship belts along the way!

To read more about Jimmy’s life as a moonlighting professional wrestler, click on the following links (for best results, open stories in Chrome):

Welding and wrestling: The life of ‘King Cobra’ Jimmy Kimble, The Daily Memphian

Jimmy Kimble, who moonlighted as 'King Cobra' and took one sick day in 55 years, is ready to take on retirement, Commercial Appeal

Jimmy – We wish you all the best in the next chapter of your life. Thank you for your 55 years of service to Republic!