WWE Hall of Famer The Iron Sheik has passed away at the age of 81.
The official Twitter account of the sheikhled by his nephews, announced the death this morning but no details on the causes of death were given.
Below you can read part of the statement on the death of Sheikh:
It is with heavy hearts that we gather today to bid farewell to a true legend, a force of nature and an iconic figure who made an incredible impact on the world of professional wrestling.
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the Iron Sheikh’s death, but we also take comfort in the knowledge that he left this world in peace, leaving a legacy that will live on for generations to come.
Aside from being the wrestling personality the world knew so well, the Iron Sheik was a devoted family man. He appreciated the love and support of his wife, Caryl, of 47 years, who stood by him through thick and thin and gave him unwavering courage throughout his life. Their bond was an anchor and gave her the strength to face life’s challenges.
To his children Tanya, Nikki, Marissa and son-in-law Eddie, he wasn’t just a wrestling icon. He was a loving and dedicated father. He instilled in them the values of perseverance, determination and the importance of pursuing their dreams. The Iron Sheikh’s guidance and unwavering belief in their potential served as a driving force for his children, empowering them to become the best versions of themselves.
Iron Sheik began wrestling in 1973 and made his WWE debut in 1979. He has worked for numerous promotions over the years including Mid-South, Jim Crockett Promotions, Georgia Championship Wrestling, WWC, WCCW and WCW.
He is a former WWE Champion and a former WWE Tag Team Champion. Sheik was inducted into the NWA Hall of Fame in 2008 and the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005. Becoming a pop culture icon as he neared retirement in 2010, Sheik has been known in recent years for his risqué tweets, which were actually penned by his nephew.
RESPECT THE LEGEND FOREVER 😢 pic.twitter.com/Cr6CC9pXSO
– The Iron Sheik (@the_ironsheik) June 7, 2023