Pro-Wrestling legend, Terry Funk passed away at the age of 79. The Hall of Famer was considered among many as one of the greatest wrestlers in the business. He was also known for his long career as a pro-wrestler starting in 1965 and all the way to 2017. In 2021 fellow legend, Don Muraco reported that Funk was diagnosed with Dementia and had been moved to an assisted-living facility as well.
Tributes poured in for the legend after WWE officially confirmed his passing on their website. Fellow Hall of Famer, ‘The Natureboy’ Ric Flair, called his friend Terry fearless and one of the hardest workers he has ever seen. Flair faced off against Funk in one of the iconic rivalries where both took part in an I-Quit match which still remains a classic despite Funk’s loss. It was also one of the very few matches that got a five-star rating from Dave Meltzer
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! Rest In Peace My Friend Terry Funk Knowing That No One Will Ever Replace You In The World Of Professional Wrestling! ???????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/EYMAKOzxnx— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) August 23, 2023
Funk was a big star not only for World Championship Wrestling (WCW), World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Wrestling Entertainment(WWE), he also enjoyed fame in the independent circuits where he performed in Japan for the All Japan Pro Wrestling for 19 long years.
Fellow Hall of Famer and protege, Mick Foley also paid tribute to the legend. In his tribute, he called the legend his mentor, idol and the greatest wrestler he has ever seen. He also requested the fans to check out a promo or a match of Terry Funk to see what he meant by this.
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… pic.twitter.com/WwdFLwXqZ0
— Mick Foley (@foleyispod) August 23, 2023
Another interesting part of his career was when he shifted from the traditional style of wrestling and evolved into a more hardcore style when he made the move to Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). He also choreographed the street fight between Rocky Balboa and Tommy Gunn in the fifth edition of the Rocky franchise.
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