RIP Dick Butkus.
The Chicago Bears announced that NFL Hall of Famer Dick Butkus passed away at age 80. Butkus died peacefully in his sleep, according to the team.
Wrestling fans might remember Butkus as the special guest referee for the battle royal at WrestleMania 2 during the Chicago portion of the show. NFL players took part in the battle royal, which was on by Andre The Giant.
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) October 5, 2023
Mick Foley posted the following comment:
This is Mick. I just learned of the passing of @ChicagoBears LB Dick Butkus. My favorite all-time player. I grew up with a poster of Butkus on my wall, and he signed it for me on the one occasion we met. A true legend. #RIPDickButkus pic.twitter.com/F8PCTPkHbQ
— Mick Foley (@foleyispod) October 5, 2023
In his nine-year career with the Bears, Butkus was named to the first-team All-Pro five times and was an eight-time Pro Bowler.
He was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1979.
On behalf of Fightful, we would like to send our condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Butkus.
