Oh What a Rush!

Another sad day for the wrestling community today as we learned of the passing of Road Warrior Animal.  Announced via his twitter page "At this time, we would like to confirm the passing of Joseph Laurinaitis aka Road Warrior Animal at the age of 60.  the family is planning to release a statement later today.  At this time we ask for you to keep everyone in you thoughts and prayers. #OhWhatARush".  

WWE issued the following statement via its twitter "WWE is saddened to learn that Joe Laurinaitis, known to WWE fans as Road Warrior Animal, has passed away at the age of 60.  One of the most intense Superstars to ever step into the squared circle, the 6-foot-2, 300-pound Animal spent most of his career alongside his tag team partner, Hawk.  Together they formed what was arguably the most successful, popular and feared tandem of all time - the Road Warriors". 

AEW also have paid tribute "AEW and the wrestling world mourn the passing of the legendary Road Warrior Animal, our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans". 

I first became a fan in 91 when I first started watching the then WWF.  My first pay-per-view was Summerslam 91 where the LOD would beat the Nasty Boys to win the WWF Tag team titles in a No DQ match.  LOD would soon became my favorite tag team, but it was only years later that I could really appreciate just how big the Road Warriors were.

I knew nothing of wrestling other than WWF at the time but as the years went by I learned more and watched more.  The Road Warriors were main event talent where ever they wrestled.  Often "no selling" and known for being "stiff" they would dominate their opponents.  

I never got to see Animal wrestle in person but was lucky enough to attend a Q&A at Comic Con in Cardiff a few years back.  Animal looked as intimidating as when a was a kid watching him on TV.  

My thoughts and love to his family and friends.