Z-Barr
- Dan Mitchell

- Jul 22, 2020
- 1 min read
Updated: 3 days ago

Tom Hirschman — better known to wrestling fans as Z‑Barr — was born on January 25th, 1982, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
He began his pro‑wrestling career in 1999 at the CZW Dojo, becoming part of Combat Zone Wrestling’s early years and helping shape the promotion’s identity. During this time, he teamed with Nick Berk as The Softcore Connection, a duo remembered for their wild antics and heel charisma.
A Philadelphia native through and through, Z‑Barr also wrestled across the independent scene. He appeared for promotions such as NWA Wildside, IWA Mid‑South — where he competed in the Candido Cup and challenged Chuck Taylor for the Heavyweight Title — Pro Wrestling Unplugged, where he held the TV Title, and even made an appearance on TNA Xplosion in 2003.
According to Online World of Wrestling, Z‑Barr was voted “Most Hated in CZW” every year the award existed. He also holds the unusual distinction of being the only wrestler ever censored on Japan’s Samurai TV after calling a referee a slur in Japanese during a match.
Z‑Barr was never afraid to take risks. He was known for his willingness to put his body on the line and for committing fully to whatever role he played — whether fans loved him or hated him.
Tom Hirschman died on July 21st, 2020. No official cause of death has been publicly released.
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