WWE pays tribute to ‘pop culture icon’ Chuck Norris after his death
WWE has shared a tribute to actor Chuck Norris following his passing at 86 years old.
Norris’ death was announced by his family on Friday, who called the passing “sudden” and said they wanted to keep the circumstances private. He had been hospitalized in Hawaii earlier this week due to an undisclosed medical emergency. Norris was a martial artist whose fame extended into film and television, where he was best known for his long-running series “Walker, Texas Ranger.”
His presence was also felt in pro wrestling with Norris serving as the special guest enforcer for the main event of WWF Survivor Series 1994. The Undertaker defeated Yokozuna in a casket match — and Norris got physically involved in the bout by dropping Jeff Jarrett with a kick.
In the company’s tribute, WWE called Norris a pop culture icon and extended its condolences to his family, friends, and fans:
- WWE is saddened to learn that legendary Hollywood actor and pop culture icon Chuck Norris has passed away.
- A legend in the television and film industry with iconic projects such as Walker Texas Ranger, The Way of the Dragon, and many more, Norris became one of the most recognizable stars in Hollywood with his martial arts background playing a key role in his films and shows.
- Norris made an iconic appearance at Survivor Series 1994, where he served as the special enforcer for The Undertaker’s Casket Match against Yokozuna.
- During the match, Norris delivered a devastating roundhouse kick to Jeff Jarrett, helping The Undertaker win.
- WWE extends its condolences to Norris’ family, friends, and fans.
Norris’ fame only grew later in life when, in the 2000s era of the internet, jokes about how tough he was became a popular meme and were shared around the world.
“While our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him,” his family announced. “The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends.”
Norris also made a pro wrestling appearance when he attended an episode of WCW Nitro in 1999.
Joseph Currier is the lead editor of F4WOnline.com, directing daily news coverage and writing articles on professional wrestling. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, obtaining a journalism degree in 2016. Joseph joined F4W during his time at UMass and has now been writing about the industry for nearly a decade.
In addition to his work with F4W, Joseph has previously contributed to Sports Illustrated's wrestling coverage. He lives in Massachusetts and is a diehard fan of the Boston sports teams and Liverpool Football Club.