Tributes have been paid to iconic wrestling presenter Gene Okerlund, following the WWE legend's death at the age of 76.
The death of Eugene Okerlund, known to fans and wrestlers as 'Mean Gene', was announced on Tuesday by the WWE, who described him as "the most recognisable interviewer in sports-entertainment history".
WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Gene Okerlund, the most recognizable interviewer in sports-entertainment history, has passed away at age 76. https://t.co/DyPiEiVLoV
— WWE (@WWE) January 2, 2019
"It was impossible not to crack a smile whenever 'Mean' Gene Okerlund entered a room," said WWE boss Vince McMahon. "He was the voice behind so many of WWE's most iconic and entertaining moments, and the WWE family will miss him immensely."
It was impossible not to crack a smile whenever "Mean" Gene Okerlund entered a room. He was the voice behind so many of WWE’s most iconic and entertaining moments, and the WWE family will miss him immensely. pic.twitter.com/zbrkQAvtug
— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) January 3, 2019
Okerlund's long association with the WWE began in 1984 following his move from the American Wrestling Association. As an interviewer, he was relentless in his pursuit of the 'mic drop' quote from the wrestlers and used comic timing to brilliant effect.
His nickname was bestowed on him by WWE star and fellow Minnesotan Jesse 'The Body' Ventura, making fun of Okerlund's friendly nature.
Wrestler Hulk Hogan described Okerlund as "the best partner I ever had".
The best partner I ever had. We never rehearsed or did anything scripted from a writer. Gene would ask me "hey big man what do u want to do?" I would always answer "just follow you brother" and it worked from 1980 - 2017. RIP my brother HH pic.twitter.com/OBtn6NxT1E
— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) January 3, 2019
Fellow athlete Steve Austin described Okerlund as "untouchable" and "simply the best".
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.
— Steve Austin (@steveaustinBSR) January 2, 2019
Condolences to his friends and family.
Okerlund underwent kidney transplants in 1995 and 2004. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006, he made his final appearance on WWE TV in January of last year.
The WWE's Stephanie McMahon described him as "an incredibly rare talent", who "made everything and everyone better".
Here are some of the many tributes:
Gene Okerlund was an incredibly rare talent. He made everything and everyone better. #ThankYouMeanGene for all the incredible memories. Our condolences to his family and loved ones. https://t.co/IxpjiLo9UN
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) January 2, 2019
So sad to hear of the passing of our friend, Mean Gene Okerlund.
— Jerry Lawler (@JerryLawler) January 2, 2019
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
One of the CLASSIEST Men I’ve Ever had the opportunity to meet and know. Always told me how proud he was to have me in the wrestling business and appreciated what I stand for. Yes I like many others Was a Huge Fan Of His "Work" But I was more Honored to see His WORTH to Everyone https://t.co/biOKHr2OPt
— Titus O'Neil (@TitusONeilWWE) January 2, 2019
I’m so heart broken to hear of the passing of Mean Gene!! Thank you Gene for the laughs, advice, and most of a wonderful friendship! #wwe. #legend. #friend pic.twitter.com/hM7E9VoDIa
— Vickie Guerrero (@VickieGuerrero) 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
I was always a big mean gene fan, as a character and much more importantly, as a person. We should say positive things about good people more often. never know when you won’t get another chance. #RIPMeanGene
— Nic Nemeth (@HEELZiggler) January 2, 2019
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
One of the most respected & never will be forgotten! Thank you for always being so kind when I would see you! Legends never die 💔 https://t.co/2A8p3xoeLj
— Dana Brooke WWE (@DanaBrookeWWE) January 2, 2019
RIP to an absolute legend of our industry, @TheGeneOkerlund. "Mean Gene" was incredible in many roles, as he wore many hats throughout his iconic career in pro wrestling. My thoughts are with his family & friends today. https://t.co/qB9FHJFx63
— #WOKEN, yet #BROKEN, Matt Hardy (@MATTHARDYBRAND) January 2, 2019
Very seldom does an interviewer become just as popular, and at times even more popular than the superstars he/she interviews. Gene Okerlund was that person. Im saddened to hear of Gene’s passing. It was an honor to know you Gene! #RIPGene
— Kurt Angle (@RealKurtAngle) January 2, 2019
We love you @TheGeneOkerlund #RIPGeneOkerlund 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/E6Q4UB8MdY
— Zelina Vega (@Zelina_VegaWWE) January 2, 2019
Devastated today hearing of the passing of Mean Gene. Truly one of the greatest in our industry. Thankful that I ever got to meet him and shake his hand. #RIPGeneOkerlund
— Viktor (@ViktorRiseWWE) January 2, 2019
Gene Okerlund was always a consummate pro. His iconic voice, personality, and talent helped so many superstars climb to the top.
— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) January 2, 2019
I am deeply saddened by his passing. RIP Mean Gene.
🙏🏻With heavy hearts we send our sincere condolences to the family of @WWE legend and hall of famer @TheGeneOkerlund You will be dearly missed. xo💙WGs pic.twitter.com/OBqfmby8eJ
— Dana Warrior (@DanaWarriorWWE) January 2, 2019
Mean Gene was one of my favorite people to be around. He was a man who loved the pro wrestling business and everything it had to offer. And treated everyone the same no matter who you were. He is a reminder to enjoy every step of whatever your journey is. #ripmeangene
— Jonathan Coachman (@TheCoachrules) January 2, 2019
Raise a ☕️to the late, great "Mean" Gene Okerlund today. pic.twitter.com/6ezjoZFnAg
— WWE (@WWE) January 2, 2019
