Dave Kotinsky/Getty ImagesWWE legend and Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes died Thursday at the age of 69, the company said in a statement.
Rhodes, whose birth name was Virgil Runnels, was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007 and was considered “one of the most captivating and charismatic figures in sports entertainment,” WWE said.
Rhodes is the father of current WWE stars Goldust (Dustin Runnels) and Stardust (Cody Runnels).
Rhodes debuted in 1968 and won the NWA title three times during his illustrious career. Rhodes’ wrestling persona was that of an American working man, and was often billed as “the son of a plumber.”
His bleach-blond hair, colorful ring attire and over-the-top microphone work made him a fan favorite.
Rhodes ended his career working backstage for the WWE in various roles and occasionally appearing on TV.
Triple H, former WWE champion and an executive vice president with the company, was one of many wrestlers paying tribute to Rhodes on Twitter.
“Saddened to hear the passing of Dusty Rhodes. Legend, teacher, mentor, friend…Love you Dream,” Triple H wrote.
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