The pro wrestling world lost one of the most popular interviewers of all time, as WWE legend Gene Okerlund has passed away at the age of 76. After spending nearly 15 years in AWA filling various roles with ring announcing being frequent, Okerlund moved to WWE towards the mid-1980s. In WWE, Okerlund was primarily known for being the one holding the microphone for the compelling, exciting, and villainous interviews from the biggest stars of the company.
After nearly a decade in the WWE, Okerlund took his talents to World Championship Wrestling, tremendously helping the company by bringing his legendary status to further talent by complementing them during interviews, just like he did for the two decades prior.
As expected, numerous wrestlers and other pro wrestling personnel commented on Okerlund’s passing.
So sad to hear of the passing of our friend, Mean Gene Okerlund.
I'll always remember Gene with a smile on his face and a drink in his hand and always wanting to help. His was "The Voice" of @WWE RIP Gene. pic.twitter.com/tgS1Yy3VpA— Jerry Lawler (@JerryLawler) January 2, 2019
https://twitter.com/JeremyBorash/status/1080499937132113920
https://twitter.com/Zelina_VegaWWE/status/1080495754794463238
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
This one stings. RIP “Mean” Gene Okerlund. As a young fan, he was the only backstage interviewer that mattered. He is the man with the golden voice who is SO synonymous with the culture of pro wrestling. I’m fortunate to have met and shared a beverage with him. Godspeed sir 😢
— Frankie Kazarian (@FrankieKazarian) January 2, 2019
After retiring from full-time interviewing and announcing, Okerlund spent much of his time still making wrestling-related appearances. In 2009, Okerlund inducted Howard Finkel in the WWE Hall of Fame, after being inducted himself in 2006.
Okerlund even teamed with Sheamus on the April 10, 2012 episode of SmackDown, defeating Daniel Bryan and Alberto Del Rio. Interestingly, Okerlund is undefeated as an in-ring competitor. His other matches were a win against Mark Madden on the August 15, 2000 episode of WCW Thunder, as well as a tag team win with Buff Bagwell against Kanyon and Mark Madden.
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