Legendary WWE star Lanny Poffo has died at the age of 68, fellow wrestler Jim Duggan confirmed on Thursday.
“With a very, very heavy heart, I’ve been asked to let everyone know about the passing of our friend and colleague Lanny Poffo, The Genius,” Duggan wrote to his Instagram page.
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Poffo’s cause of death was not made public.
Poffo began what would soon become a prolific wrestling career in the World Wrestling Federation in 1985, where he remained until 1992, according to Wrestling Inc. He quickly became known for his poems and for his quick heel work, and amassed a huge fan following. Poffo was also the brother of the famous late wrestling star Randy Savage.
Poffo left the WWF to join their biggest rival, the World Championship Wrestling in 1995, where he remained until 1999, according to Wrestling Inc. (RELATED: Famous Wrestler Jay Briscoe Dead At 38)
It has been reported
Lanny Poffo has passed away
I always enjoyed his work in ring & that he had poem for us all#TheGenius pic.twitter.com/Fr6RS6okPN— Tommy Dreamer (@THETOMMYDREAMER) February 2, 2023
His long career in the world of wrestling began with his first in-ring appearance with the All-South Alliance in 1974, according to TMZ. Poffo also won a Tag-Team Championship alongside his father, Angelo, during his early days in the industry.
Poffo was affectionately known as “Leaping Lanny Poffo,” and “The Genius.”
Sad to hear of Lanny Poffo’s passing. Lanny was a joy to have in the ROH locker room and at the broadcast table in 2019. He was amazed by the athleticism & charisma of today’s athletes & complimentary of today’s product.
We kept up via text over the years – may he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/LoYmXkDE7x
— Ian Riccaboni (@IanRiccaboni) February 2, 2023
His adoring fans, friends, and fellow wrestlers have shown an outpouring of love on social media, upon hearing of his passing.