Ultimate Warrior, who, after headlining Saturday’s WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony appeared on the subsequent nights’ WrestleMania and RAW programs, has died at the age of 54.
The circumstances of the sudden death have not yet been revealed, but WWE formally confirmed the passing in a website update late Tuesday.
“WWE is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the most iconic WWE Superstars ever, The Ultimate Warrior,” read WWE’s official statement. “Warrior began his WWE career in 1987 and quickly went on to become one of the biggest stars in WWE history. Warrior became WWE Champion at WrestleMania VI, defeating Hulk Hogan in an epic encounter. We are grateful that just days ago, Warrior had the opportunity to take his rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame and was also able to appear at WrestleMania 30 and Monday Night Raw to address his legions of fans. WWE sends its sincere condolences to Warrior’s family, friends and fans. Warrior was 54 and is survived by his wife Dana and his two daughters.”
WWE executive Triple H also shared the sad news on his Twitter account, writing, “Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters.”
Chairman Vince McMahon added, “We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters.”
One of the most recognizable faces in WWE history, Warrior, born Jim Hellwig, made his first RAW appearance in more than a decade this Monday.