Professional wrestling legend “Superstar” Billy Graham died Wednesday at the age of 79. No reason was given, but he had been struggling with health problems for some time and was hospitalized on life support in intensive care.
Graham, real name Eldridge Wayne Coleman, was a three-time former world champion professional wrestler, including winning the 1977-78 WWWF title, which eventually became WWE. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2004.
His wife Valerie posted on Graham’s Facebook account Monday morning that she had refused to remove his life support.
His colleagues mourned his loss but honored his legacy.
“SUPERSTAR BILLY GRAHAM. One of my first teachers of heat,” tweeted the Iron Sheik. “THE TRUE LEGEND BUBBA. HE LOVES ME, I LOVE HIM. Together we go to the gym and shock the earth. I love you forever brother. REST IN PEACE.”
Graham began professional wrestling in the late 1960s. He wrestled until 1987 when injuries and health problems ended his career. After leaving the ring, he became a television commentator.
Graham won the WWWF Championship ahead of Bruno Samartino in April 1977 but lost it to Bob Backlund in February 1978.
Graham was considered an influence on such well-known wrestlers as Hulk Hogan, Jesse “The Body” Ventura, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Scott Steiner and Ric Flair, among others.
He leaves behind his wife and two children.