Iconic Wrestler Terry Funk Passes Away at the Age of 79

Professional Wrestling Legend Terry Funk Passes Away at 79

Fond Farewells from Wrestling Icons and WWE

Professional wrestling legend Terry Funk, known for his storied career spanning six decades, has passed away at the age of 79. The news was confirmed by wrestling icons Ric Flair and Mick Foley, as well as the WWE.

Foley, who considered Funk his mentor and idol, tweeted, “Terry Funk is gone. He was my mentor, my idol, one of the closest friends. He was the greatest wrestler I ever saw.” Flair also expressed his condolences, calling Funk a “great wrestler, entertainer, unbelievably fearless, and a great friend.” The WWE extended its condolences to Funk’s family, friends, and fans.

A Legendary Career and Wrestling Innovator

Terry Funk’s contributions to the world of professional wrestling are immeasurable. He wrestled for nearly every major U.S. wrestling promotion, winning numerous championships and earning accolades across the industry.

Funk began his career as a tag-team partner with his brother, Dory Funk Jr., in their father’s Western States Sports promotion in Amarillo, Texas, in the 1960s. As a singles competitor, Funk’s career reached new heights in 1975 when he captured the NWA World Heavyweight Championship in a match against Jack Brisco. Funk held the prestigious title for over a year, making him and his brother the only siblings to both hold the championship.

Known for his brawling style, Funk’s influence extended beyond the U.S. borders. He gained recognition and popularity in All Japan Pro Wrestling and helped pioneer the “hardcore” style of wrestling during his memorable feud with Ric Flair in World Championship Wrestling. Funk’s career also included stints in Extreme Championship Wrestling, where he competed in the International Wrestling Association of Japan’s “King of the Death Match Tournament.”

Funk’s impact on the wrestling world continued during WWE’s heralded “Attitude Era” in the late 1990s. He performed under the names “Chainsaw Charlie” and his actual name, Terry Funk, and both teamed and feuded with Mick Foley, who also played a significant role in popularizing hardcore wrestling as Cactus Jack.

Throughout his career, Funk made appearances in other promotions such as ECW, WCW, TNA, All Japan, and various independent promotions. In 2009, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame alongside his brother. Funk is also a member of the NWA and International Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, St. Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame, and the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Beyond Wrestling: A Multifaceted Talent

Terry Funk’s impact wasn’t limited to the wrestling ring. He also showcased his talent in several movies and TV shows, including “Over the Top,” “Road House,” and as a stuntman in “Rambo III” and “Rocky V.”

In recent years, Funk’s health issues became public knowledge. Wrestling legend Don Muraco revealed in 2021 that Funk had been battling dementia and was in an assisted living facility. Funk’s Twitter account later confirmed that he was dealing with multiple health issues.

An Outpouring of Emotion from the Wrestling World

The news of Terry Funk’s passing has led to an outpouring of emotion from the wrestling community. Fellow wrestlers and fans took to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to the wrestling legend.

Dustin Rhodes, another wrestling icon, tweeted, “Just heard that Terry Funk is gone. Truly heartbroken over this. He has known me since I was a child. He was an incredible mentor and friend.” Ryan Satin, Matthew Rehwoldt, and Sean Ross Sapp also shared their memories and appreciation for Funk’s contributions to the industry.

Funk’s legacy and impact on professional wrestling will undoubtedly endure, as he leaves behind a remarkable career and a lasting influence on the sport.

Advice: Preserving Wrestling Legends’ Legacies

As the wrestling community mourns the loss of Terry Funk, it is essential to recognize and preserve the legacies of wrestling legends. Their contributions to the industry and the cultural impact of their work should be remembered and celebrated.

Promotions, organizations, and wrestling fans must continue to honor these legends through various means, such as inductions into Hall of Fames, commemorative events, and documentary projects that chronicle their careers. This ensures that their stories and contributions are passed down to future generations of wrestling fans and historians.

Moreover, it is crucial to support the health and well-being of wrestling icons. The physical toll of professional wrestling is well-documented, and the industry should prioritize the care and assistance of veteran wrestlers, particularly in their later years. Providing access to quality healthcare and support services can help improve the overall well-being of wrestling legends.

In conclusion, the passing of Terry Funk marks the end of an era in professional wrestling. His impact and contributions to the sport will forever be remembered, and it is our responsibility as fans and industry participants to honor his legacy and the legacies of other wrestling legends.