Wrestling icon “Rowdy” Roddy Piper was found dead due to cardiac arrest at his Hollywood home on Friday morning at the age of 61.
One of wrestling’s biggest stars in the ’80s, Piper got his start with the NWA before joining WWE in 1984. He took on Hulk Hogan in the historic “The War to Settle the Score” and Wrestlemania I, where Piper and “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff squared off against Hogan and Mr. T in 1985.
Considered one of the top 50 villains in WWE history, Piper would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005. Although his last match was in 2008, he continued to appear at various WWE events until 2014.
“I am devastated at this news. Rod was a good friend as well as a client and one of the most generous, sincere and authentic people I have ever known. This is a true loss to us all,” Roddy’s reps told TMZ.
A family member told TMZ, “Our family is saddened by the sudden passing of our father and beloved husband, Roderick Toombs aka Rowdy Roddy Piper.”
Piper was previous diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma back in 2006 but was given a “cancer free” bill of health this past November.
He is survived by his wife and their four kids.
WWE Stars React to “Rowdy” Roddy Piper’s Death
My main man. Always had my back. RIP #RoddyPiper pic.twitter.com/hlwY8BCVrj
— Virgil (@TheRealVirgil) July 31, 2015
RIP to Roddy Piper. Prayers to his family and loved ones.
— Kevin Nash (@RealKevinNash) July 31, 2015
Just heard my friend and a huge influence on me Hot Rod-Roddy Piper has passed away. Rest well friend, you will be missed. #lifeWellLived
— John Layfield (@JCLayfield) July 31, 2015
