Bobby ‘The Brain’ Heenan, legendary WWE manager, dies at 73

MANILA, Philippines – Bobby “The Brain” Heenan, one of the greatest managers and color commentators in professional wrestling, died on Sunday, September 17 at the age of 73.

A cause of death was not immediately announced, but Heenan was diagnosed with throat cancer back in 2002. The WWE legend then went under a reconstructive jaw surgery in 2007, which seriously impacted his ability to speak.

Heenan started his professional wrestling career in 1961, but found his greatest success at ringside as a manager. He flourished in this career path and was dubbed as “The Brain” for his entertainment value and knack for making the careers of great wrestlers.

Heenan created the “Heenan Family”, which included WWE Hall of Fame names Andre the Giant, Ric Flair, Paul Orndorff, Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, Rick Rude, Mr. Perfect and Harley Race. 

Bobby Heenan made it to the WWE Hall of Fame as well in 2004.

Heenan, with his sharp wit and wise-cracking putdowns against “humanoids”, became one of the most influential heels in wrestling history. His impact on the industry was demonstrated by the outpouring of tributes he received after news of his death circulated.

…one of a kind. pic.twitter.com/2uM1qpWHaF

— Triple H (@TripleH) September 17, 2017

pic.twitter.com/PpPpNdq6yP

— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) September 17, 2017

Don’t mourn death
Celebrate Life
Thanks for entertaining & making my childhood great
Bobby the Brain Heenan
Goodnight pic.twitter.com/7RQSvL8iJO

— Tommy Dreamer (@THETOMMYDREAMER) September 18, 2017

Our thoughts go out to the family of Bobby "The Brain" Heenan. No manager or commentator was ever better at entertaining us humanoids.

— Daniel Bryan (@WWEDanielBryan) September 17, 2017

One of the greatest managers and announcers in WWE history. Our thoughts are with the Heenan family. pic.twitter.com/r9A3IJlSoP

— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) September 18, 2017

– Rappler.com