WWE Legend 'Mean Gene' Okerlund Dead At 76
Jan. 2 2019, Published 2:41 p.m. ET
WWE Hall of Famer "Mean" Gene Okerlund has died at age 76.
A cause of death has not been released, but Okerlund suffered serious health setbacks, including kidney transplants in 1995 and 2004.
One of the most famous figures in sports-entertainment and pro-wrestling history, Okerlund began his high-profile work with the American Wrestling Association in 1970.
"In his early days, 'Mean Gene,' as he was named by fellow Minnesotan, Jesse 'The Body' Ventura first came to prominence by interviewing the greatest stars of the AWA, including Ventura, Bobby 'The Brain' Heenan and Hulk Hogan," the WWE noted in a statement.
"In 1984, Okerlund made the move to WWE where he became a staple on national cable television by continuing to interview the biggest names in sports-entertainment like Hogan, 'Macho Man' Randy Savage, The Ultimate Warrior and many more," the organization added.
Okerlund when on to work for decades more as a highly regarded interviewer, ringside commentator and host.
"Mean Gene, I love you my brother," Hogan, 65, said after learning about Okerlund's passing.
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Other WWE stars weighed in on the sad news as well.
"Mean Gene was the voice of millions of childhoods. Mine certainly. An honor to meet him. Condolences to his family," said Big E.
"So sad to hear of the passing of one of the greatest voices in wrestling," said famed WWE referee Charles Robinson. "Mean Gene, you will be missed and we will continue to love you. What a true class act. I am very fortunate to work with you."
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