James Hellwig, a former professional wrestling superstar better known as the Ultimate Warrior, has died. He was 54.
The news comes just days after Hellwig was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
WWE confirmed the news on its website:
WWE is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the most iconic WWE Superstars ever, The Ultimate Warrior. Warrior began his WWE career in 1987 and quickly went on to become one of the biggest stars in WWE history. Warrior became WWE Champion at WrestleMania VI, defeating Hulk Hogan in an epic encounter. We are grateful that just days ago, Warrior had the opportunity to take his rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame and was also able to appear at WrestleMania 30 and Monday Night Raw to addres! s his legions of fans. WWE sends its sincere condolences to Warrior's family, friends and fans. Warrior was 54 and is survived by his wife Dana and his two daughters.
In addition, WWE chief Vince McMahon shared the news on Twitter:
We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters.
— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) April 9, 2014
There is no word on cause of death.
Hellwig defeated Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania VI in 1990 to become champion of what was then known as the WWF (World Wrestling Federation).
However, Hellwig and the organization had a falling out that only recently ended.
"If you really want the biggest bang for your buck, do something self-destructive, get exiled and still come back to headline the Hall of Fame," Hellwig told the Orlando Sentinel last week.
Fellow wrestlers paid tribute to Hellwig on Twitter:
Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters
— Triple H (@TripleH) April 9, 2014
Deeply saddened. We just had a great talk & buried a senseless hatchet. Talked working together. RIP Warrior. Taking solace we made peace.
— JakeSnakeDDT (@JakeSnakeDDT) April 9, 2014
Devastated to hear of the passing of @UltimateWarrior. He was a childhood hero of mine & he vs @HulkHogan WM6 is still one of the best ever
— Chris Jericho (@IAmJericho) April 9, 2014
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Source : www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/09/ultimate-warrior-dead_n_5115492.html?utm_hp_ref=celebrity&ir=Celebrity
