WWE Hall of Famer Pat Patterson has passed away aged 79, and it doesn’t come as too much of a surprise considering how much death is synonymous with the pro wrestling industry and 2020 too for that matter.
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What was surprising to me was just how accomplished and important Pat Patterson was in the wrestling industry:
Rest in Peace to Pat Patterson
-The first ever openly gay wrestler
-The first WWE Intercontinental champion
-Creator of Royal Rumble
-The oldest person to win a WWE title at 78 (24/7 champion) in July 2019
-One of the innovators of WWE’s success— El Kit D. Leon 🇵🇭 (@TheKeithBasuan) December 2, 2020
I mean if you’re responsible for even just one of the things on that list, it’s safe to say you’ve left your mark on the industry. But to be the first ever openly gay wrestler, the first ever Intercontinental champion and the creator of the Royal Rumble? That is a certified legend right there, even if he never had the big name status of some of his contemporaries like Hulk Hogan or Andre The Giant.
Most of us actually got to know Pat Patterson after he was done wrestling, funnily enough. He was great in his role alongside Gerald Brisco as Vince McMahon’s corporate stooges during the Attitude Era, and ate more than his fair share of Stone Cold Stunners during that period.
You can tell how much he meant to his peers by some of Tweets coming out today:
I can not express how crushed I feel right now with the loss of Pat Patterson. A true member of my family, mentor and dear friend.
I love you Pat.
God speed. pic.twitter.com/FdaAFnsw8m— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) December 2, 2020
Just heard of the passing this morning if the great, Pat Patterson.
True legend of the pro wrestling business.
A wonderful mentor who taught me so much.
RIP old friend. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/t61R9yCze1— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) December 2, 2020
Saddened to hear the news about Pat Patterson. Coming to WWE in 2002 was a “unique” situation. Pat was one of the first to go out of his way and genuinely make me feel at home. We shared many hours, stories, and yes a cocktail or 2. RIP Pat. You did it your way.
— Eric Bischoff (@EBischoff) December 2, 2020
Loss is incredibly difficult. Those we love are only truly gone if we stop caring. Pat Patterson lived life as it should be lived with passion, love and purpose. He helped so many and always entertained with a story or joke. He will live on in my life always. Love you Patrick.
— John Cena (@JohnCena) December 2, 2020
Sounds like he was a hell of a guy as well as a pioneer of the game. RIP and no doubt WWE will be coming out with some form of tribute in the near future.
For a look at The Rock meeting the nWo for the first time in our Pro Wrestling Flashback series, click HERE.
