John was a 1974 graduate of Oak Hills High School where he was a standout wrestler. John had a fantastic feat of participating in the state wrestling tournament all four years of his high school career. He was the Ohio High School District and State Champion in the 126lb weight class in 1974. In that same year, he was a Scholastic Wrestling High School All-American, the Oak Hills MVP, and Moxy State Champion, as well as the Cincinnati Enquirer Wrestler of the Year To cap off the awards season, he was named Sports Illustrated Award of Merit winner. In 1973, he was the UC Invitational Most Valuable Wrestler and awarded most pins. He was also a Jr. Olympics National Champion in the 132lb weight class.
