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Kurt Angle, Ric Flair, & More Wrestling Legends Pay Tribute to the Late Dory Funk Jr.

August 5, 2026 | Posted by Jeffrey Harris
TNA Dory Funk Jr. Image Credit: TNA

As previously reported, WWE Hall of Famer Dory Funk Jr. away this week. He was 85 years old. A number of wrestlers and legends have shared their tributes to Funk across social media.

WWE SmackDown GM and former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion Nick Aldis wrote, “Today we lost a true legend. A professional wrestler who dedicated his life to our business until his final day. A real world’s champion. Last of his kind. God Bless Dory Funk Jr. My condolences to Marti and his loved ones. Rest in Peace.”

His wife, former WWE Women’s Champion Mickie Jame, also wrote about Funk, recalling training under him. She wrote, “I had the honor and privilege to train under Dory when I was still trying to cut my teeth in this business. He always remembered the young Alexis Laree and told me how proud of me he was every time I saw him. He led with so much kindness, and his passion for this business never faded. We lost a good man today. Rest in peace, Dory Funk Jr. The Funk family has given so much to wrestling, and the world feels a little emptier without you in it. Sending all my love to Marti and the entire Funk family. Thank you for everything 🖤.”

WWE Raw GM Adam Pearce commented, “Godspeed, Dory Funk, Jr. I didn’t get to spend as much time with you as some of my peers, but I tremendously appreciate the moments we shared. NXT Live Events in Ocala talking about the old NWA; chewing the fat about the industry. Your legacy and contributions are without question and will endure. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and all affected. Rest well, sir. 🙏”

WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle also wrote the following about Dory Funk. Jr:

“Dory Funk Jr. was a legend in many ways as a wrestler, a coach, and an incredible human being. I vividly remember the first time I had the privilege of meeting him at the “Dory Funkin Dojo” during a WWE tryout and training camp aimed at preparing young wrestlers for future performances on TV.

Dory taught me the basics of pro wrestling, and there was no one better than him. He quickly took a liking to me and decided to be my coach and manager for my very first matches. His genius in our sport was unmatched, and his unique style and vast knowledge set him apart from others.

Being “old school” was something I loved about him, but he also knew how to adapt to the evolving landscape of wrestling. Dory prepared me for my first matches in just five days, keeping things simple and basic so I could understand my movements in the ring.

There will never be another like him. You will be sorely missed, Dory. Rest in peace, my friend.”

WWE Hall of Famer and wrestling legend Ric Flair also wrote the following comments:

“I’m More Than Sorry To Hear About The Passing Of The Great And I Do Mean GREAT Dory Funk Jr.! If You Didn’t Have The Opportunity To Wrestle A Funk, Whether It Be Dory Or Terry, You Missed The Opportunity Of A Lifetime. The Word Wrestling And Funk Are Synonymous. There Are Not Enough Mount Rushmores To Accommodate Everybody, But I’m Sure That Anyone Who Wrestled Either One Of Them Would Agree That They’re On Someone’s Mount Rushmore. So Many Thoughts On My Mind Right Now As I’m Coming Home From A WrestleCon. I Know We Are All Getting Older, And I Would Emphasize To Everyone, Because You Can’t Buy Time, To Live Every Moment Of Your Life To The Fullest. Rest In Peace My Great Friend Dory Funk Jr.! What A Great Ride You Had! 🙏🏻”

You can view those posts, plus more from JBL, Dan Spivey, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, and more below:

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