wrestling / News
UPDATEDx2: Roddy Piper Passes Away
UPDATE 2: WWE has provided a company statement, as well as one by Vince McMahon, to 411 about Roddy Piper’s passing today:
WWE: “WWE is deeply saddened that Roderick Toombs, aka “Rowdy” Roddy Piper – WWE Hall of Famer and Intercontinental Champion – passed away today at the age of 61. WWE extends its sincerest condolences to Toombs’ family, friends and fans.”
Vince McMahon: “Roddy Piper was one of the most entertaining, controversial and bombastic performers ever in WWE, beloved by millions of fans around the world. I extend my deepest condolences to his family.”
UPDATED: TMZ has more news on Roddy Piper’s death, revealing that the WWE legend passed away in his sleep due to a heart attack. Piper’s agent told the site, “I am devastated at this news. Rod was a good friend as well as a client and one of the most generous, sincere and authentic people I have ever known. This is a true loss to us all.”
In addition, Piper’s family issued a statement, saying, “Our family is saddened by the sudden passing of our father and beloved husband, Roderick Toombs aka Rowdy Roddy Piper.”
ORIGINAL: Roddy Piper has passed away. TMZ reports that Piper died at a home in Hollywood from natural causes. He had been diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2006, but had said he was cancer-free as recently as November.
Piper, of course, is a pivotal figure in WWE history and wrestling in general. Beginning his career in 1969 at the age of fifteen, Piper spent his early days in the business working for the American Wrestling Association and the NWA. He spent time in the Pacific Northwest territory and Georgia Championship Wrestling before signing with the WWE in 1983, where he became one of the company’s biggest heels. His feud with Hulk Hogan is likely his most memorable; he also had runs in WCW and TNA as well. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.
On behalf of 411, our condolences to the family, fans and friends of Mr. Piper. He will most definitely be missed.
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