Terry Funk, one of the highest-regarded professional wrestlers in history, has died at 79 years old.
Funk had a career that spanned all the way from 1965 until 2017, with a 14-month reign as NWA world champion — at a time when this was the unified national title amongst a number of regional territories — that began in 1975.
He was one of the pioneers of the “hardcore” style of wrestling and was universally considered by wrestling fans and workers in the business as a consummate professional.
His death was confirmed by his longtime close friend — an alternating in-ring rival and partner — Mick Foley.
“I just talked to Terry’s daughter, Brandee, who gave me the awful news,” Foley tweeted Wednesday.
“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…”
Funk was the son of Texas wrestler and promoter Dory Funk, and began his career in his father’s promotion Western State Sports, in Amarillo, Texas.
“WWE extends its condolences to Funk’s family, friends and fans,” the company said in a statement.
Funk had runs in All Japan Pro Wrestling, WWE (then-WWF), WCW and ECW.
“In My Entire Life, I’ve Never Met A Guy Who Worked Harder,” tweeted Ric Flair, who feuded with Funk and had a famous “I Quit” match with him at WCW Clash of Champions IX in 1989. “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!”
Funk also appeared in a number of movies, including “Road House,” “Paradise Alley,” “The Ringer” and “Over the Top.”
Funk was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2011.
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