Legendary Professional Wrestler Who Won The NWA World Heavyweight Championship Dies At 79
Terry Funk’s legendary professional wrestling career spanned six decades. He had wrestling in his blood. Both his father, Dory Funk, and older brother, Dory Funk Jr., were professional wrestlers.
Funk started his career as a tag-team partner for his brother and later transitioned to a career as a singles competitor. In 1975, he won the NWA World Heavyweight Championship against Jack Brisco. He held onto the title for over a year. That was the highlight of his career.
Now, at the age of 79, comes the sad news that Funk died on August 23, 2023. The wrestling community is mourning his death.
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
A day I wish would never come. Thank you Terry Funk for what did for wrestling. Thank you for helping ECW. Thank you for being kind to me. I love you….TERRY FUNK FOREVER!FOREVER! FOREVER! FOREVER!#RestInPeaceTerryFunk pic.twitter.com/FfRPOGvErK
— Brian Heffron aka The Blue Meanie (@BlueMeanieBWO) August 23, 2023
The beautiful thing about Terry Funk is depending on your age or generation, you quite likely identify him with a completely different list of legendary accolades and moments as someone from another generation. pic.twitter.com/na07zMa9sy
— Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) August 23, 2023
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! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/EYMAKOzxnx
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) August 23, 2023
Funk’s career latest until 2017. He competed in ECW, WCW, TNA and WWE as well as All Japan and other independent promotions.
In 2009, Funk and his brother were both inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Besides wrestling, Funk also dabbled in acting and stunt work. His film and television credits include “Rocky V,” “Rambo III,” “Road House” and “Over the Top.”
In 2021, wrestling legend Don Muraco publicly shared that Funk had been diagnosed with dementia and was living in an assisted living facility. His official cause of death is currently undisclosed.
Rest in peace.
