In a sad twist of fate, the world of professional wrestling mourns the loss of an iconic figure, Terry Funk. The legendary career of this wrestling icon spanned an impressive six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. The sudden news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community as fans and fellow wrestlers face the void left by his departure. Confirmation of Funk’s demise came from multiple credible sources, including his manager and an official statement from WWE. However, details regarding the cause of his death remain undisclosed. Family and friends are in mourning, reflecting on Funk’s profound impact on their lives.
Terry Funk’s Cause of Death Remains a Mystery
The passing of Terry Funk has left many reeling, with questions surrounding the circumstances of his death. Yet, information about the cause remains private, according to Marca. Sadly, on August 23, 2023, Terry Funk passed away at 79. CBS News, WWE, and prominent figures within the wrestling community have confirmed this unfortunate event. WWE officially conveyed the news via their Twitter account:
“WWE is saddened to learn that Terry Funk has passed away. Funk’s contributions to the world of sports-entertainment will never be forgotten.”
WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Terry Funk has passed away at the age of 79.
WWE extends its condolences to Funk’s family, friends and fans. pic.twitter.com/1elQq5ZkDn
— WWE (@WWE) August 23, 2023
Mick Foley, both a rival in the ring and a close friend in real life, also paid tribute through a tweet from his official account:
“I’m saddened to hear that the great Terry Funk has passed away. He made me love this business, and I’m proud to have known him.”
Regrettably, the Funk family has not disclosed the precise cause of Terry Funk’s passing. Statements from Funk’s manager, Timothy Beal, indicated that Terry had been dealing with health issues. Notably, reports revealed that Terry had been diagnosed with Dementia in 2021. However, it remains uncertain if this condition affected his passing.
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A Legacy That Shaped Wrestling
Terry Funk’s legacy in the wrestling world is nothing short of remarkable. Born on June 30, 1944, in Hammond, Indiana, he emerged as an influential American professional wrestler. His enduring career spanned over half a century, distinguishing him as one of the industry’s greatest. His family background was steeped in wrestling, with his father, Dory Funk, also a wrestler and promoter, and his brother, Dory Funk Jr., a professional wrestler.
Funk’s journey led him to Amarillo, Texas, following World War II, and he later graduated from West Texas State University. His time at the university saw his involvement in amateur wrestling and football. Throughout his illustrious career, Funk had numerous memorable moments. His feud with Ric Flair in World Championship Wrestling, his participation in Japan’s “King of the Death Match Tournament” within the International Wrestling Association, and his groundbreaking role in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) all solidified his status as a wrestling legend.
Notably, even in his 50s, Terry Funk continued to defy expectations, securing victory against Raven and capturing the ECW Championship in April 1997.
Terry Funk’s passing marks the end of an era in the wrestling world. As the community comes to terms with this profound loss, his legacy will undoubtedly endure, continuing to inspire generations of wrestlers and fans alike.