Dusty Rhodes: WWE Legend Dead at 69
"The American Dream" was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007.
— -- WWE legend and Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes died today at the age of 69, the company said in a statement.
Rhodes, whose real name was Virgil Runnels, was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007 and was considered “one of the most captivating and charismatic figures in sports entertainment,” the WWE said.
Rhodes is the father to current WWE stars Goldust (Dustin Runnels) and Stardust (Cody Runnels).
Rhodes debuted in 1968 and won the NWA title three times during his illustrious career. Rhodes’ wrestling persona was that of an American working man and was often billed as "the son of a plumber.”
His bleach-blond hair, colorful ring attire and over the top microphone work made him a fan favorite.
Rhodes ended his career working backstage for the WWE in various roles and occasionally appearing on TV.
Triple H, former WWE champion and an executive vice president with the company, was one of the many wrestlers paying tribute to Rhodes on Twitter.