Earlier today, Legendary wrestling interviewer Gene Okerlund passed away. He was 76 years old. Throughout the day, members of the wrestling community have shared their condolences and memories of Okerlund.
One Of My Closest Friends Since 1972 Until This Very Sad Day In 2019. Not Only The Greatest Voice And Personality In The History Of Announcing, But A Man Who Touched Everyone’s Life Who Were Fortunate Enough To Know Him. Rest In Peace Knowing No One Will Ever Replace You. pic.twitter.com/i7illbxQgw
— Ric Flair (@RicFlairNatrBoy) January 2, 2019
You Will Forever Be MEAN BY GOD GENE!
— Ric Flair (@RicFlairNatrBoy) January 2, 2019
Goodbye, old friend. Thank you for the memories ---- pic.twitter.com/EMDrs0ozGP
— Charlotte Flair (@MsCharlotteWWE) January 2, 2019
Gene Okerlund was always a consummate pro. His iconic voice, personality, and talent helped so many superstars climb to the top.
— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) January 2, 2019
I am deeply saddened by his passing. RIP Mean Gene.
Gene Okerlund was an incredibly rare talent. He made everything and everyone better. #ThankYouMeanGene for all the incredible memories. Our condolences to his family and loved ones. https://t.co/IxpjiLo9UN
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) January 2, 2019
Mean Gene was universally loved by everyone I’ve met that knew him.
— Soon. (@FightOwensFight) January 2, 2019
Very few people can say that their work will forever be appreciated and remembered. Very few can legitimately claim to be legends in their field.
Those things can undoubtedly be said about him. #RIPMeanGene
I remember the first time I met Gene.
— Drake Maverick (@WWEMaverick) January 2, 2019
Gene: “Spud - I was walking around the offices of Titan Towers in Stamford CT. Do you know who was talking about you?”
Me: “OMG - Who Gene?”
Gene: “Absolutely f’n NOBODY!”
God bless you sir #RIPMeanGene
#RIPGeneOkerlund pic.twitter.com/GjS5wsjOIm
— Dustin Rhodes (@Goldust) January 2, 2019
#ThankYouMeanGene pic.twitter.com/NovQBdFJ5N
— WWE (@WWE) January 2, 2019
----With heavy hearts we send our sincere condolences to the family of @WWE legend and hall of famer @TheGeneOkerlund You will be dearly missed. xo--WGs pic.twitter.com/OBqfmby8eJ
— Dana Warrior (@DanaWarriorWWE) January 2, 2019
Very sad to hear of his passing. He was incredible at what he did. Watching him was how I learned that every single role is important. He taught me that if you don't care then they won't care. Thoughts go out to his family. https://t.co/HK68HfcPhE
— Austin Creeds finally going to MagFest (@XavierWoodsPhD) January 2, 2019
We love you @TheGeneOkerlund #RIPGeneOkerlund ---- pic.twitter.com/E6Q4UB8MdY
— Zelina Vega (@Zelina_VegaWWE) January 2, 2019
Super bummed about Mean Gene. Literally JUST sat down last week to do an interview about his legacy. He was the most iconic backstage interviewer in wrestling history in my opinion. #RIPMeanGene
— Seth Rollins (@WWERollins) January 2, 2019
Very sad day as I hear of the passing of another legend. Lots of fond memories with old Mean Gene and the Goldberg family ..... you will be missed my friend. ---- @TheGeneOkerlund
— Bill Goldberg (@Goldberg) January 2, 2019
So sad today to hear of the sudden passing of my dear friend @TheGeneOkerlund
— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) January 2, 2019
I just saw Mean Gene in North Carolina at WrestleCade.
It’s so true that our tomorrow’s are never guaranteed.
Say hello to Jan, Mean Gene. -- pic.twitter.com/PQ4ZZGmXnx
I will always value those days at the TV Studio where Gene would have everybody rolling with laughter.
— Rev. Graves (@WWEGraves) January 2, 2019
Tonight, indulge in a vodka soda with a splash of cranberry. An “Okerlund” in our business.
Don’t cry because we lost him. Smile because we had him.
RIP "Mean" Gene.