The professional wrestling world definitely lost some legends in 2018, and it has unfortunately continued so early in the new year. WWE Hall of Famer Gene Okerlund has passed away at the age of 76.
The most recognizable interviewer in sports-entertainment history, Oklerlund was a truly iconic wrestling announcer for his work with the WWE, WCW and AWA and hosted several shows, including All-American Wrestling, Tuesday Night Titans, Wrestling Challenge and Prime Time Wrestling.
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Born on December 19, 1942 in Sisseton, South Dakota, Eugene Arthur Okerlund, known to most as "Mean Gene," started his career as a disc jockey in Omaha, Nebraska before moving to Minneapolis, Minnesota to work for a local television station.
Then, in 1970, Okerlund joined the American Wrestling Association and took over the ring announcing and interviewing from Marty O'Neill in a few short years. The rest is history.
Okerlund did it all for the wrestling community. With the help of Hulk Hogan, he pinned Mr. Fuji in a match in 1984, sang the national anthem at the first WrestleMania, made an appearance on The A-Team, and provided countless memorable segments from behind the microphone, including these two gems with "Macho Man" Randy Savage and Andre the Giant.
Needless to say, this is a tough loss for anyone who grew up watching the American Wrestling Association, World Wrestling Federation and World Championship Wrestling. Many superstars such as Triple H, Steve Austin and Ted DiBiase all posted their condolences on social media.
A voice and sound track to an entire era of our industry. He was the star of some of @WWE’s most memorable segments. “Mean Gene” was beloved by all who got to work with him. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. https://t.co/9ddj6372eE
— Triple H (@TripleH) January 2, 2019
Just heard Mean Gene Okerlund has passed away. As an interviewer, pitch man, announcer, or host, he was untouchable. Simply the best. Total professional with quick wit, sarcasm, humor, and that golden voice.
Condolences to his friends and family.
— Steve Austin (@steveaustinBSR) January 2, 2019
WWE universe has lost one of its greatest announcers and truly one of the nicest guys you’d ever know. “Mean” Gene Okerlund, RIP my friend pic.twitter.com/u3bS6pePmY
— Ted DiBiase (@MDMTedDiBiase) January 2, 2019
A 2006 WWE Hall of Fame inductee, Oklerlund last appeared on WWE TV in January 2018, when he interviewed A.J. Styles during the 25th anniversary episode of World Wrestling Entertainment's Raw.
Rest in peace, Mean Gene Okerlund. You will be missed.
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