Wrestling icon The Ultimate Warrior, a.k.a. James Hellwig, died unexpectedly Tuesday evening. He was 54.
The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed, but the news sent shockwaves around the pro-wrestling world, with fans expressing their dismay over the legendary grappler’s passing.
He had been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame only a few days before he died.
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“WWE is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the most iconic WWE Superstars ever, The Ultimate Warrior,” the WWE said in a statement. “Warrior began his WWE career in 1987 and quickly went on to become one of the biggest stars in WWE history. Warrior became WWE Champion at WrestleMania VI, defeating Hulk Hogan in an epic encounter. We are grateful that just days ago, Warrior had the opportunity to take his rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame and was also able to appear at WrestleMania 30 and Monday Night Raw to address his legions of fans. ”
Hulk Hogan and other wrestlers took to social media to share their grief.
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We talked,both forgave each other,we hugged ,we shook hands as we told each other I love you,I am so sad,God bless his beautiful family HH
— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) April 9, 2014
RIP WARRIOR. only love. HH
— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) April 9, 2014
Deeply saddened. We just had a great talk & buried a senseless hatchet. Talked working together. RIP Warrior. Taking solace we made peace.
— JakeSnakeDDT (@JakeSnakeDDT) April 9, 2014
ULTIMATE WARRIOR I LOVE YOU FOREVER #RIPULIMATEWARRIOR http://t.co/qMWO05ktJO
— The Iron Sheik (@the_ironsheik) April 9, 2014
Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters
— Triple H (@TripleH) April 9, 2014
Deeply saddened to find out about the passing of #WWE LEGEND, @UltimateWarrior. You & your legacy will FOREVER be remembered in our hearts!
— Diamond Dallas Page (@RealDDP) April 9, 2014
Loss always has a way of reminding us to live and love as greatly as we can. My prayers and strength to his family.
RIP Ultimate Warrior.
– Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) April 9, 2014
Watch The Ultimate Warrior’s final appearance below: