"Superstar" Billy Graham has passed away.
Graham (real name Wayne Coleman) has passed away at the age of 79 after a lengthy battle with multiple health issues. Graham underwent emergency surgery on May 10 and was on life support as of May 15.
Graham had been in the Mayo Clinic ICU and dealing with a list of health issues, including a major infection in his ears and skull, congestive heart failure, diabetes, hearing loss as a result of the infection, and more. He received a liver transplant in 2002, which started his list of health issues.
Graham is widely credited by fans and his peer for his influence when it came to promos, physique, and charisma. Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, Jesse Ventura, and more have credit Graham for his influence on their careers.
The Superstar Billy Graham Just Left Us ---- THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR INFLUENCE On My Career! pic.twitter.com/YH0eT2NM4p
— Ric Flair (@RicFlairNatrBoy) May 18, 2023
Graham started training in 1969 with Stu Hart and Stampede Wrestling. He competed for various territories and promotions before joining the American Wrestling Association in 1972. He would go on to compete for the WWF and the NWA throughout the 70s and 80s. He was outspoken against Vince McMahon and steroid use in wrestling in the early 90s. He later apologized to McMahon.
Graham is a former WWWF Heavyweight Champion and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2004.
Fightful would like to send our condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Graham.
