Kidd later left an apprenticeship to join the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm in 1943 and served as a mechanic during World War II.

[a] Yet he was able to enjoy great success during his career by developing an elaborate, clever, and sometimes whimsical so-called ”British” style of wrestling.

In 1949, Kidd added the European Lightweight title to his record competing in Paris, with a reported victory over Mick McManus.

By 1952 he had also defeated Spanish and Belgian claimants to become undisputed World Lightweight champion[4] (inasmuch as Kidd's was the only active version worldwide of the title).

Kidd was admired for his ability to counter or escape from the most intricate holds, earning himself the nickname of "the Houdini of the mat".

His technical savvy coupled with a fierce competitive spirit allowed him to out-wrestle some of the most praised names in the professional wrestling business.

[6] He also trained or influenced many other accomplished pro wrestlers who would later go on to become major stars on British television’s World of Sport era, including long-lasting lightweight champion Johnny Saint who first won the title in 1976 to fill the vacancy caused by Kidd's retirement.

He was inducted by Lost Provost Bob Duncan at a special ceremony at Caird Hall, which was also attended by former wrestler and Aberdeen councillor Len Ironside.