Breaking news: WWE Hall of Famer Terry Funk passes away at the age of 79

Ric Flair announced on Wednesday that WWE Hall of Famer Terry Funk has passed away at the age of 79. Flair wrote the following…

”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! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻”

Mick Foley also issued a statement…

”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 that this incredible man gave so much, for so long, to so many. There will never be another like him. May God bless Terry, his friends, family and all who loved him. RIP my dear friend – it was an honor to know you.”

In addition to being an NWA Worlds champion, Funk was also considered to be a pioneer of hardcore wrestling. Tommy Dreamer said the following to WWE.com in 2009…

”Terry Funk is the godfather of hardcore wrestling; he put ECW on the map when it was in its infancy. Most importantly to me, Terry Funk is my mentor and friend. He gave me my greatest advice ever when I was struggling in the early days of ECW.”