Pat Patterson obit

Pat Patterson, the first openly gay pro wrestling star, has died at 79

 

He was not on the list.

Pro wrestling icon Pat Patterson, the industry's first openly gay star and a long-time lieutenant of promoter Vince McMahon, has died, officials said Wednesday.

The WWE Hall of Fame member was 79.

A true trailblazer of the industry, Patterson was linked to many 'firsts' in sports-entertainment throughout his storied career," World Wrestling Entertainment said in a statement. "In a career spanning six decades, the renaissance man left an indelible mark on the industry in the ring, on the microphone and behind the scenes."

Pro wrestler John Cena said he'll never forget Patterson's friendly demeanor and zest for life.

"Pat Patterson lived life as it should be lived with passion, love and purpose," Cena said in a statement. "He helped so many and always entertained with a story or joke. He will live on in my life always. Love you Patrick."

Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, better known as The Iron Sheik, tweeted an all-caps eulogy of his contemporary, lauding Patteron's "beautiful mind for this business and beautiful heart for this world."

"I don't know what to say other than I love you," he wrote. "My heart is broken. God bless you and your family. Thank you for your friendship."

Long-time WWE referee Charles Robinson said he'll miss seeing his old friend in the ring, backstage, on press row and even at the karaoke bar.

"One of the greatest minds in the business and just an all around great guy," Robinson said. "I will miss him and his karaoke! RIP my friend. You are a hero to many!"