Iron Sheik, a former heavyweight champion and WWE Hall of Famer, went away at the age of 81.
The 1942 Iranian-born WWE icon was regarded as one of the biggest heels to ever enter the squared circle. He had previously won the championship by defeating Bob Backlund in 1983.
Shiek’s representatives confirmed his death, saying;
“Today, as we say goodbye to a true legend, a force of nature, and an iconic figure who made an immense impact on the world of professional wrestling, we do so with heavy hearts. We share the terrible news of The Iron Sheik’s departure, but we also find comfort in the fact that he left this world peacefully and left behind a legacy that will live on for future generations.
Following his passing, World Wrestling Entertainment issued the following statement:
“WWE is saddened to learn of The Iron Sheik’s passing and offers its condolences to his family, friends, and fans,” the company said in a statement.
One of Hulk Hogan’s earliest foes was The Iron Sheik, but Hogan ultimately prevailed over Sheik to win the title, igniting Hulkamania.
Along with Nikolai Volkoff, Sheik won the WWF Tag Team championship in 1985. Sgt. Slaughter, Sheik’s longtime foe and former partner, performed Sheik’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.
Sheik’s children and wife of 47 years, Caryl, survive him.
