Lanny Poffo has passed away at the age of 68.
Details regarding his passing are currently unknown. "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan first informed fans of the news on social media.
Poffo was known as "Leaping" Lanny Poffo and The Genius during his time in wrestling. He was the brother of "Macho Man" Randy Savage.
With a very, very heavy heart, I've been asked to let everyone know about the passing of our friend and colleague Lanny Poffo, The Genius.
— Hacksaw Jim Duggan (@RealHacksawJim) February 2, 2023
RIP Lanny pic.twitter.com/4ve4J2HSHT
Poffo made his debut in 1974, competing in the All-South Wrestling Alliance. He would make his way across the territories, competing in the National Wrestling Alliance, Atlantic Grand Prix Wrestling, Mid-South Wrestling, Continental Wrestling Association, and more.
He joined WWE in 1985 as "Leaping Lanny" and then portrayed "The Genius" in the late 80s. Poffo signed with WCW in 1995, but only wrestled one match. He competed for various independent companies since 2005, wrestling his last match in January 2020.
Poffo gave the WWE Hall of Fame induction speech on behalf of Randy Savage, who was inducted in 2015.
WWE posted the following statement:
WWE is saddened to learn that Lanny Poffo, best known to sports-entertainment fans as The Genius, passed away at 68 years of age.
The son of Angelo Poffo and younger brother of WWE Hall of Famer “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Lanny Poffo had a style all his own. Arriving in WWE in 1985 alongside his brother, “Leaping” Lanny Poffo was one of the first high-flyers in WWE. While he achieved some success as a fan favorite reading his own poetry and throwing Frisbees to the crowd, he reached new heights as The Genius while managing Mr. Perfect.
WWE extends its condolences to Poffo’s family, friends and fans.
Fightful would like to send condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Lanny Poffo.
