Nobody does an in memoriam video tribute quite like the WWE. But the fear there is that’s most likely because they’ve had way, way too much practice at it.
The global pro-wrestling giant stood silent for a moment at the top of their live broadcast of Monday Night RAW earlier today, to honour the life and legacy of one of the all-time greats – “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, who passed away this past weekend at the age of 61.
Piper’s passing marks the second major death in the (at least American) pro-wrestling industry in the past couple of months, following the demise of fellow Hall Of Famer “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes back in early June.
Piper was a renowned bad guy – known just as much for his verbal skills as he was his in-ring prowess. Arguably the greatest wrestler never to never hold a World Heavyweight Championship, Piper participated in the main event of the very first WrestleMania – teaming with “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff, to take on the team of Hulk Hogan and Mr. T.
Outside of wrestling, Piper also maintained a semi-successful acting career, having starred in the cult hit They Live, as well as maintaining a recurring guest role on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
The WWE observed the industry-standard 10 bell salute at the beginning of RAW, which was followed by an extremely touching video package.
Tributes have been flowing in from around the industry, and globe, for Piper – including from Ronda Rousey, who had the nickname “Rowdy” passed down to her by Piper. Rousey dedicated her win over Bethe Correia to Piper.
Just when you thought you had all the answers, he changed the questions.
Rest in peace, Roddy. We hope – wherever you are – you never run out of bubblegum.
