Wrestling legend The Iron Sheik has passed away at the age of 81. The WWE Hall of Famer, whose real name was Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, died peacefully on Wednesday, June 7th, his family has confirmed.
Vaziri was one of the most famous WWF stars in the 1980s and won the WWF World Heavyweight Championship in 1983. He was also known for his arch-rivalry with the likes of Hulk Hogan. Continue reading to know more about his life and career.
WWE Legend The Iron Sheik Dies at 81
Sheik’s family confirmed his death with a statement on social media: “Today, we gather with heavy hearts to bid farewell to a true legend, a force of nature, and an iconic figure who left an incredible mark on the world of professional wrestling.”
“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of The Iron Sheik, but we also take solace in knowing that he departed this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations to come.”
The wrestler is survived by his wife Caryl, children Tanya, Nikki, Marissa, and son-in-law Eddie, along with five grandchildren. “Beyond the glitz and glamour of the squared circle, The Iron Sheik was a man of immense passion and dedication,” continued the statement.
“He overcame countless challenges in his life, both inside and outside the wrestling ring. His journey from a small village in Iran to becoming one of the most recognized figures in the world of wrestling is a testament to his unwavering dedication.”
Sheik was Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005
Sheik started his career as an amateur wrestler in Iran in the early 1970s. He then switched to professional wrestling and signed a contract with American Wrestling Association (AWA). He made his WWF debut in 1979 and won the first edition of Battle Royal in New York City.
Sheik left WWE in 1980, but returned three years later, winning the World Heavyweight Championship against Bob Backlund. At the same time, his rivalry with Hogan became widely famous, and the two faced each other in several matches. Sheik departed from WWF in 1987, making a brief final return in 1991.
He then went on to wrestle for various promotions, including World Class Championship Wrestling, UWFi in Japan, and World Championship Wrestling. The wrestler was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005. He retired from wrestling in 2015.
Tributes Pour In for the Wrestler
A number of celebrities and WWE stars took to Twitter to mourn Sheik’s death. Pro Wrestler Jake “The Snake” Roberts wrote, “A true icon and someone who left a mark on wrestling that can never be erased. Another great one gone.”
“The legend. An all-time great performer and WWE Hall of Famer who brought his character to life and transcended our business. My condolences to The Iron Sheik’s family, friends and fans,” tweeted Triple H.
Mick Foley wrote, “REMEMBERING THE IRON SHEIK The wrestling world lost a true legend today, with the passing of Khosrow Vaziri, better known to fans across the globe as The Iron Sheik. Although I never got to know The Sheik well, I was fortunate to have been on hand for two of his most iconic.”
Our condolences to The Iron Sheik’s family and friends. May his soul rest in peace!
