Dory Funk Jr dead aged 85: Tributes pour in for WWE Hall of Famer who WON his last fight at the age of 83

TRIPLE H has paid a heartwarming tribute to Dory Funk Jr – after the WWE legend died at the age of 85. The American followed his dad into wrestling and went on to train a host of current stars after his retirement. Dory Funk Jr has passed away aged 85 Credit: Getty WWE head of creative Triple H, 57, released an emotional statement following Funk’s death. The iconic wrestler, whose real name is Paul Michael Levesque, said: “Saddened to announce the passing of Dory Funk Jr. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! “From the Double Cross Ranch to the WWE Hall of Fame, Dory’s style inspired countless performers in our industry. “Whether it was at WrestleMania Two, WCW, ECW, or the dozens of NWA-affiliated promotions, his travels across North America and Asia were a part of the early blueprint that helped build this business into a global phenomena. “A hard-nosed and fierce competitor, his rugged in-ring style was only eclipsed by the decades he spent training athletes to perform in the squared circle he loved so much. “My thoughts and those of the entire WWE Universe are with his loved ones during this difficult time.” Funk sensationally won his final wrestling match when he stepped back into the ring two years ago. At the age of 83, he teamed up with Osamu Nishimura to defeat Atsushi Onita and Raijin Yaguchi in Japan. Most read in Sport And Funk was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by longtime pal Dusty Rhodes in 2009. Fans rushed onto social media to pay their respects after his passing was confirmed. One said: “Bro had his last match at 83 in an explosion match and won. RIP legend.” Another added: “Rest in peace. I trained under him in 2001 for his Funking Conservatory. God speed.” A third noted: “Rest in peace, Dory Funk Jr. A true pioneer whose influence will live on through generations of wrestlers.” A fourth chimed in: “Legend doesn’t even describe it. Just an amazing human being and wonderful professional wrestler.” Funk’s brother and fellow Hall of Famer Terry passed away at the age of 79 in 2023. More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us on TikTok @TheSun. Comment now