Wrestling legend and WWE Hall of Famer "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes died Thursday at the age of 69.
WWE sent put out this statement this afternoon:
"WWE is deeply saddened that Virgil Runnels, aka "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes — WWE Hall of Famer, three-time NWA Champion and one of the most captivating and charismatic figures in sports entertainment history — passed away today at the age of 69.
"Runnels became a hero to fans around the world thanks to his work ethic, his impassioned interviews and his indomitable spirit. Moreover, Runnels was a dedicated father to WWE Superstars Goldust (Dustin Runnels) and Stardust (Cody Runnels), a caring husband and a creative visionary who helped shape the landscape of WWE long after his in-ring career had ended.
"WWE extends its sincerest condolences to Runnels' family, friends and colleagues."
The outpouring of emotion from wrestlers and fans was immediate.
The American Dream, indisputably, was one of the greatest performers in the history of the business. His in-ring feuds with the Four Horsemen in particular were legendary. But the one thing that people will always remember about Dusty Rhodes was his charisma. His promos, with that distinct accent and speech patterns, are something that are still emulated today by wrestlers and wrestling fans alike. Whenever someone brings up the most charismatic wrestlers of all time, the top of that list is usually Ric Flair or Dusty Rhodes.
Condolences go out to his family, including Goldust and Cody, friends, and anyone who knew him.