WWE legend Pat Patterson dies at 79

WWE announced that Hall of Famer and first ever Intercontinental Champion Pat Patterson died on Wednesday, December 2 at the age of 79.

WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Pat Patterson has passed away. https://t.co/SDMTR6skZn

— WWE (@WWE) December 2, 2020

The cause of death was not revealed, but according to reports, Patterson had recently been battling cancer.

Patterson made his WWE debut in 1979 and quickly made an impact as he became the first Intercontinental Champion in September of that year. 

After hanging up his boots in 1984, Patterson worked behind the scenes in WWE for decades and served as WWE chairman Vince McMahon’s right-hand man. Patterson is known for creating one of the most popular matches in WWE history, the Royal Rumble match.

Patterson’s last WWE on-screen appearance came on a July 2019 edition of Monday Night RAW, where he won the 24/7 Championship and became the oldest champion in WWE history at the age of 78.

WWE superstars John Cena, Triple H and Shawn Michaels are among those who paid tribute to Patterson after news of his death circulated online.

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

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.
Rest In Peace. https://t.co/wfyiwbrkCA

— Shawn Michaels (@ShawnMichaels) December 2, 2020

– Rappler.com