Terry Funk dead at 79: Tributes paid to WWE legend whose wrestling career lasted more than 50 years
WWE legend Terry Funk has died at the age of 79.
The wrestling icon had a career that lasted more than 50 years in the industry.
Mick Foley posted on social media: "Terry Funk is gone. I just talked to Terry’s daughter, Brandee, who gave me the awful news.
"He was my mentor, my idol, one of the closest friends. He was the greatest wrestler I ever saw.
"If you get the chance, look up a Terry Funk match or a Terry Funk promo, and give thanks that this incredible man gave so much, for so long, to so many.
"There will never be another like him.
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"May God bless Terry, his friends, family and all who loved him. RIP my dear friend - it was an honor to know you. #RIPTerryFunk."
Among the first from the WWE universe to pay tribute to the Hall of Famer was Ric Flair.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, he wrote: "In My Entire Life, I’ve Never Met A Guy Who Worked Harder.
"Terry Funk Was A Great Wrestler, Entertainer, Unbelievably Fearless, And A Great Friend!
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"Rest In Peace My Friend Terry Funk Knowing That No One Will Ever Replace You In The World Of Professional Wrestling!"
Funk's wrestling career began back in 1965 with Western States Sports - a promotion in Texas.
Moves to Florida and Japan followed before he joined what was then known as the WWF in 1985.
For the remainder of his career, Funk would bounce between the WWF/WWE, WCW, ECW, NWA, and others.
Come 2009, he and his brother Dory would ultimately be indicted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Throughout his career, Funk also tested his skills as an actor.
Most notably, he appeared in the 1989 blockbuster Road House, while also appearing in Rambo III, Over The Top, and the TV series Wildside.
Funk's cause of death has not been made public.
