Tributes have come flooding in for Pat Patterson, who has sadly passed away aged 79 after a long battle with cancer.
Patterson, who was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1996, is most well known for clinching the very first Intercontinental Championship as well as being the first openly gay professional wrestler.
He was also the creator of the 'Royal Rumble' match which has become so popular today.
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Patterson was loved by so many within the sport.
In the wake of his death, the WWE released a statement saying: "WWE is saddened to learn that Pat Patterson has passed away at the age of 79.
"A true trailblazer of the industry, Patterson was linked to many 'firsts' in sports entertainment throughout his storied career, including the first-ever Intercontinental Title reign and the creation of the Royal Rumble Match."
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Since joining the WWF in 1978, Patterson went on to have a decorated career in the ring before eventually transitioning to the commentary box shortly after his retirement in 1984.
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson lead the long list of legendary wrestling stars who took to social media in the wake of Patterson's passing.
Within his tribute, The Rock simply said: "A WWE hall of Famer, true trailblazer and one of the most brilliantly creative wrestling minds the industry has ever known."
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While Triple H tweeted: "No words can describe what he gave to us. His body as an in-ring performer, his mind as a storyteller, and his spirit as a beloved member of our large WWE family. I will miss him for so many reasons..."
And John Cena added: "Pat Patterson lived life as it should be lived with passion, love and purpose. He helped so many and always entertained with a story or joke. He will live on in my life always."
Topics: Dwayne The Rock Johnson, Vince McMahon, The Rock, Wrestling, WWE, Australia
