Tiny Lister Jr., known to wrestling fans the world over for his turn in the 1980s cult classic No Holds Barred as Zeus, has passed away at the age of 62. According to TMZ reports, police responded to a call coming from Lister’s apartment in Marina del Rey, California. The actor was declared dead when they arrived.
A star in the ring both on the silver screen and in real life, Lister brought his Zeus character to life in a memorable series of bouts teaming up with the Macho Man against his Hollywood rival, Hulk Hogan. Lister would also work several matches outside of WWE, including against Abdulah The Butcher in Puerto Rico and against Hogan once again in WCW as Ze Gangster.
Outside of wrestling, Lister appeared in several notable Hollywood productions over his 35-year career, including The Dark Knight, the Friday series, and 1986’s Armed and Dangerous.
WWE has issued a statement regarding Lister’s contribution to the wrestling world, which is reproduced below:
WWE is saddened to learn that Tom “Tiny” Lister, known as Zeus to the WWE Universe, passed away today at age 62.
Zeus first entered the squared circle opposite Hulk Hogan in the 1989 film “No Holds Barred.” The rivalry extended beyond the big screen, as The Human Wrecking Machine quickly formed a common bond with “Macho Man” Randy Savage in their shared quest to take down The Immortal One. Zeus & Savage battled Hogan & Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake in the main event of SummerSlam 1989. One of Zeus’ most memorable moments came at Survivor Series 1989 as part of Ted DiBiase’s Million Dollar Team, when The Human Wrecking Machine got the better of The Hulkster in an impressive display of strength.
Lister famously portrayed the daunting Deebo in the classic “Friday” and “Next Friday” movies, as well as roles in “The Fifth Element,” “The Dark Knight,” and “Zootopia.”
WWE extends its condolences to Lister’s family, friends and fans.
Everyone at WrestleZone would like to extend our condolences to friends, family, and fans of Tiny Lister Jr. He will be missed.
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