Not to be trite, but the man's been "dying" for the past 30 years. He was the influence in the 70s that had me pick up my first barbell. Guess I at least owe him a blurb on a message board.

He was also the influence that created Hulk Hogan, Austin Idol, Jesse Ventura and the dozen or so other copycat wrestlers in the 80s. Definitely influenced the roid freaks of the 80s-90s.

I found him (as I did pro wrestling in the 70s) hilarious. He couldn't wrestle worth a crap but his heel antics were entertaining.

Hope he finally found the peace he's been looking for.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sport...9/70230492007/