The wrestling world lost a pioneer on Wednesday morning when Pat Patterson passed away.
Patterson not only had a successful in-ring career, becoming the first-ever WWE Intercontinental Champion, but he was one of the most influential agents in WWE history as well.
Following his passing, the wrestling world shared their memories and condolences on social media.
#RIPPatPatterson I’m deeply grateful to have grown up with @wwe Hall of Famer, the first-ever Intercontinental Champion, the father of the #RoyalRumble and the first openly gay wrestler of his generation. Thank you for teaching me how to not take it all so seriously. Abooze
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) December 2, 2020
I am still reeling from the news that I woke up to, that Pat Patterson passed away last night.
— Michael PS Hayes (@MichaelPSHayes1) December 2, 2020
Pat was my mentor and great friend, he taught me so much, more than he ever knew.
He will be missed, but, NEVER forgotten, as Pat left his mark on this business years ago!
R.I.P. Pat
I can not express how crushed I feel right now with the loss of Pat Patterson. A true member of my family, mentor and dear friend.
— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) December 2, 2020
I love you Pat.
God speed. pic.twitter.com/FdaAFnsw8m
No words can describe what he gave to us. His body as an in-ring performer, his mind as a storyteller, and his spirit as a beloved member of our large @WWE family. I will miss him for so many reasons... it’s never goodbye, it’s see ya down the road. Love you, Pat. Abooze
— Triple H (@TripleH) December 2, 2020
Few could speak the art of our industry into existence. Pat spoke to me, taught me so much, and helped me see what was really possible to achieve in my career. God bless you, Pat.
— Shawn Michaels (@ShawnMichaels) December 2, 2020
Rest In Peace. https://t.co/wfyiwbrkCA
Loved @wwe Hall of Famer Pat Patterson as a great friend and a mentor. The incredible times we had traveling the world, watching him sing karaoke, telling stories, talking golf are something I’ll treasure forever. Love you Pat, RIP legend. pic.twitter.com/xk3y08J24H
— John Layfield (@JCLayfield) December 2, 2020
— Kevin (@FightOwensFight) December 2, 2020
RIP ---- Pat was a staple. Always came to NXT. Loved the women’s matches. He will be missed.
— Charlotte Flair (@MsCharlotteWWE) December 2, 2020
No one had more passion for our business or went out of their way to help new talent, myself included, like Pat. Today we lost a legend. You’ll be sorely missed my friend. https://t.co/buOuM62Tkj
— Sheamus (@WWESheamus) December 2, 2020
A Great Wrestler, He And Ray Were Second To None, A Fabulous Mind, Caring And Thoughtful, Always Had A Smile On His Face. Just To List A Few Of Many! The Last Thing I Can Remember Him Saying To Me Is “She Is So Damn Good Ricky, Are You Sure She Is Your Daughter?” RIP Pat! ---- pic.twitter.com/KHzabO7v7G
— Ric Flair (@RicFlairNatrBoy) December 2, 2020
So sad to hear of the passing of @wwe legend Pat Patterson. One of the greatest minds in the business and just an all around great guy. I will miss him and his karaoke! RIP my friend. You are a hero to many! pic.twitter.com/WXFwJ1fjkO
— Charles Robinson (@WWERobinson) December 2, 2020
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of wrestling legend Pat Patterson. We offer our condolences to his friends and family.
— IMPACT (@IMPACTWRESTLING) December 2, 2020
Loss is incredibly difficult. Those we love are only truly gone if we stop caring. Pat Patterson lived life as it should be lived with passion, love and purpose. He helped so many and always entertained with a story or joke. He will live on in my life always. Love you Patrick.
— John Cena (@JohnCena) December 2, 2020
A major loss for the @WWE family today. Pat worked alongside my family for years and was always invested in my success.
— Roman Reigns (@WWERomanReigns) December 2, 2020
Brilliant mind for the business and always ready to make a joke ... at your expense!
Rest In Peace, Pat. God bless.
Pat Patterson always sat in or near gorilla and not only watched the shows, but made sure to compliment us on our way back . But I’ll always remember Pat most for coming to Xmas karaoke in NXT to sing the same song every year! Always the main event. He will be missed.
— Bayley (@itsBayleyWWE) December 2, 2020
I just heard the terrible news about the passing of Pat Patterson. I loved the man. I could listen to his stories for hours. One of the all-time great wrestlers, one of the best minds in the business, and a dear friend.#RIPPatPatterson https://t.co/SozhlF8bQY
— Mick Foley (@RealMickFoley) December 2, 2020
Very saddened to hear about the passing of one of my best friends..Pat Patterson. He had an infectious personality where you always wanted to be around him. This photo of Pat, @ShawnMichaels and me was from Wrestlemania 21. Pat helped us create an incredible Story. #RIPHOFer pic.twitter.com/APHVs7hRoi
— Kurt Angle (@RealKurtAngle) December 2, 2020
Tough morning hearing the news about Pat,shocked,RIP my brother,Pat and Buddy Colt let me ride with them when I had my first match,the ribbing started that day and went on until now,love you my brother,tabernac HH
— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) December 2, 2020
I don't have the words to properly convey the respect and admiration I have for Pat Patterson.
— Paul Heyman (@HeymanHustle) December 2, 2020
Whatever I can offer, it's simply not enough. #RIPPatPatterson -- your contributions to our lives will forever be appreciated! pic.twitter.com/vm4C6cRXLl
RIP Pat Patterson.