The wrestling world and its fans are devastated at the loss of Gene Okerlund, who passed away this morning at the age of 76. “Mean Gene” was the voice synonymous with WWF, WCW and certainly with the AWA for the wide range of talent who worked with him and the younger generations that grew up watching as fans. So often was he the voice of reason in the wild world of wrestling and was intrical in setting the tone for the product in building up a company’s talent and shows. Below are the condolences and prayers given from his colleagues and admirers and WrestleZone will be sure to keep updating the post throughout the day as the wrestling world pays tribute to “Mean Gene” Okerlund:
It was impossible not to crack a smile whenever “Mean” Gene Okerlund entered a room. He was the voice behind so many of WWE’s most iconic and entertaining moments, and the WWE family will miss him immensely. pic.twitter.com/zbrkQAvtug
— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) January 3, 2019
You Will Forever Be MEAN BY GOD GENE!
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) January 2, 2019
Gene Okerlund was always a consummate pro. His iconic voice, personality, and talent helped so many superstars climb to the top.
I am deeply saddened by his passing. RIP Mean Gene.— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) January 2, 2019
RIP to an absolute legend of our industry, @TheGeneOkerlund. "Mean Gene" was incredible in many roles, as he wore many hats throughout his iconic career in pro wrestling. My thoughts are with his family & friends today. https://t.co/qB9FHJFx63
— MATT HARDY (@MATTHARDYBRAND) January 2, 2019
Goodbye, old friend. Thank you for the memories ♥️?? pic.twitter.com/EMDrs0ozGP
— Charlotte Flair (@MsCharlotteWWE) January 2, 2019
Gene Okerlund was an incredibly rare talent. He made everything and everyone better. #ThankYouMeanGene for all the incredible memories. Our condolences to his family and loved ones. https://t.co/IxpjiLo9UN
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) January 2, 2019
The narrative voice imbedded in the recollection of my childhood.
Like anyone incredible, they live on through us in the ways that we remember them. https://t.co/pMRFpjJUUg— Karrion Kross ⏳ (@realKILLERkross) January 2, 2019
Mean Gene I love you my brother HH
— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) January 2, 2019
Devastated to hear the news of my friend Gene Okerlund’s passing. He was, and will always be, pro wrestling greatest stick man #meangene
— Tony Schiavone (@tonyschiavone24) January 2, 2019
Just heard Mean Gene Okerlund has passed away. As an interviewer, pitch man, announcer, or host, he was untouchable. Simply the best. Total professional with quick wit, sarcasm, humor, and that golden voice.
Condolences to his friends and family.— Steve Austin (@steveaustinBSR) January 2, 2019
WWE universe has lost one of its greatest announcers and truly one of the nicest guys you’d ever know. “Mean” Gene Okerlund, RIP my friend pic.twitter.com/u3bS6pePmY
— Ted DiBiase (@MDMTedDiBiase) January 2, 2019
So sad to hear of the passing of one of the greatest voices in wrestling. Mean Gene you will be missed and we will continue to love you. What a true class act. I am very fortunate to work with you.
— Charles Robinson (@WWERobinson) January 2, 2019
A voice and sound track to an entire era of our industry. He was the star of some of @WWE’s most memorable segments. “Mean Gene” was beloved by all who got to work with him. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. https://t.co/9ddj6372eE
— Triple H (@TripleH) January 2, 2019
A voice of my childhood, and one of the greatest of all time — you will be missed, Gene. https://t.co/15kNprnbRd
— Nattie (@NatbyNature) January 2, 2019
Of the very few regrets I harbor in my career, one was never getting to scream “Mean Gene” when answering the queries of a man who presence was larger than life and ingrained in the better memories of my childhood.
RIP Mean Gene.
My condolences to the Okerlund family.— Samoa Joe (@SamoaJoe) January 2, 2019
One of the CLASSIEST Men I’ve Ever had the opportunity to meet and know. Always told me how proud he was to have me in the wrestling business and appreciated what I stand for. Yes I like many others Was a Huge Fan Of His “Work” But I was more Honored to see His WORTH to Everyone https://t.co/biOKHr2OPt
— Titus O’Neil (@TitusONeilWWE) January 2, 2019
I remember the first time I met Gene.
Gene: “Spud – I was walking around the offices of Titan Towers in Stamford CT. Do you know who was talking about you?”
Me: “OMG – Who Gene?”
Gene: “Absolutely f’n NOBODY!”
God bless you sir #RIPMeanGene
— Drake Maverick (@WWEMaverick) January 2, 2019