LEGENDARY wrestling star ‘Rowdy’ Roddy Piper has died, aged 61.
The WWE Hall of Famer suffered a heart attack in his sleep on Thursday night and his body was discovered the following day.
The wrestling world was quick to pay tribute to Piper, who headlined the first ever WWE WrestleMania in a match pitting him and Paul Orndorff against Hulk Hogan and Mr T.
Piper, real name Roderick Toombs, won more than 30 titles in his illustrious career, mostly as a bad guy, including the WWE Intercontinental Championship.
He was famed as much for his amazing verbal skills as his in-ring prowess, with his Piper’s Pit segment being a highlight of WWE programming, on and off, for more than 20 years. His final work in wrestling was hosting a popular podcast of the same name.
Even though he wore a kilt and had a Scottish gimmick, Piper was born and bred in Canada. He always had a special affinity with the UK, making many visits here – including a recent spoken word tour and even hosting ITV’s ill-fated Celebrity Wrestling series.
The star’s success also translated into the acting world and he starred in almost 50 films, including cult classic ‘They Live’.
WWE Chairman Vince McMahon led the tributes , saying: “Roddy Piper was one of the most entertaining, controversial and bombastic performers ever in WWE, beloved by millions of fans around the world.
“I extend my deepest condolences to his family.”
John Cena, today’s most popular wrestling star, added: “One of the true greats of all time. My heart goes out to his family and the fans he entertained over the years. RIP Rowdy.”
Piper successfully battled cancer in 2006. He is survived by his wife Kitty and their four children, daughters Anastacia, Ariel and Falon, as well as aspiring wrestler son, Colton.
Piper’s death follows the passing of many 1980s and 1990s wrestling legends in recent years, including ‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage (58), The Ultimate Warrior (54) and, just one month ago, Dusty Rhodes (69).
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