Iron Sheik, a renowned WWE wrestler, and hall-of-farmer who held the heavyweight champion title passes away, his family confirmed. In a statement released on Wednesday, the family expressed deep sorrow as they announced the passing of the legendary figure who was hailed as a true icon and an unstoppable force of nature within the world of wrestling.
According to this announcement made on his official Twitter account, Iron Sheik, a well-known Greco-Roman wrestler hailing from Iran passed away at the age of 81. He rose to international prominence through his captivating presence in professional wrestling during the 1980s, engaging in memorable rivalries with legends like Hulk Hogan. His death marks the end of an era in the world of wrestling, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be remembered.
With his imposing physique, charismatic presence, and wrestling style that struck fear into the hearts of his opponents, Iron Sheik became an iconic figure in the world of professional wrestling. His remarkable career spanned decades, leaving a strong footprint and earning him a place among the most memorable personalities of all time.
Credits: Business Insider Africa
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Reminiscing the career of Iron Sheik
Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, better known by his ring name Iron Sheik achieved immense success in the world of professional wrestling. As a former WWF World Heavyweight Champion, he left a lasting impression on the sport and was honored with induction into the prestigious WWE Hall of Fame in 2005. Renowned for his tough persona, the Iron Sheik engaged in legendary battles during the 1980s, pitting him against wrestling icons such as Hogan, Bob Backlund, and Sgt. Slaughter.
In a great turn of events, Vaziri won over Backlund in December 1983, capturing the WWF title. However, his reign was short-lived, as Hogan seized the championship belt just one month later, in front of an electrified crowd of over 20,000 spectators at New York’s iconic Madison Square Garden. This historic encounter between Vaziri and Hogan not only defined their career but also played a pivotal role in propelling Hulkamania to new heights. It laid the foundation for the inaugural WrestleMania, which took place one year later and became an unparalleled spectacle in the world of professional wrestling.
Credits: Wrestling Inc.
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The Legacy of Iron Sheik
Known for his distinctive appearance, featuring a shaved head, a prominent handlebar mustache, and unique curled-shoe shoes, Iron Sheik’s personality pays homage to his Iranian heritage, adding to his charismatic presence in the wrestling world.
Prior to his wrestling career, Vaziri had an intriguing background. According to ESPN, he served as a bodyguard for Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi of Iran. Furthermore, he came close to representing his country as a member of the Olympic wrestling team in 1968, showcasing his impressive athletic abilities. Vaziri, later relocated to the United States, where he made significant contributions to the world of wrestling. He became an assistant coach for the American wrestling team and later joined the WWE(then known as WWF) in 1979, commencing his illustrious career in professional wrestling.
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Credits: Outsider
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The wrestling world pays homage to the Hall of Famer
Following the demise of the legendary Iron Sheik, the renowned celebrities of the wrestling world took to social media accounts to pay tribute to the wrestling icon.
WWE shared a tweet writing, “WWE is saddened to learn that Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, known the world over as WWE Hall of Famer Iron Sheik, passed away on Wednesday, June 7, at age 81. WWE extends its condolences to the Iron Sheik’s family, friends, and fans.”
The famous Dwayne Johnson shared, “Rest in power, Uncle Sheiky, Thank you for paving the way. Love, light, and strength to Caryl & the ohana.”
Mick Foley wrote, “The wrestling world lost a true legend today, with the passing of Khosrow Ali Vaziri..”
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