Harley Race, one of wrestling’s biggest names and legends, has passed away at age 76.
Race’s death was first confirmed by Dustin Rhodes, and later by the National Wrestling Alliance and All Elite Wrestling. Race was an eight-time NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion, and reigned as the first-ever NWA United States Heavyweight Champion. He also held the WWA World Heavyweight Championship on one occasion and won the 1986 King of the Ring tournament in WWF. Race was inducted into WWE’s Hall of Fame in 2004, as well as the Professional Wrestling Hall Of Fame that year.
Race’s official Twitter account has since been updated with the following information:
Today at 12:50, we lost the man that fought up until the very last of his existence. More information will be released soon, but just know that he loved pro-wrestling and the fans that loved him.
Harley Race, we love you
— Harley Race (@8XNWAChampion) August 1, 2019
I’ve just spoke to Harley Race’s family and it’s true, he has been diagnosed with Lung Cancer, but it’s not terminal. He’s being treated and supervised by his doctors. He is still very active in the Harley Race Wrestling Academy and his promotion World League Wrestling. Also, next weekend’s NWA Worlds Championship match at WLW’s “Night of Champions” is still on and previously I’ve already made plans to attend. Harley and his family appreciates everyone’s concern and asks that the public to allow him his space to rest.
Related: Harley Race Update: Still Hospitalized After Medical Scare, Tees For Sale To Help With Expenses
Today the world lost one of the toughest men ever to walk God's green earth.
RIP Harley Race!
8X NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion.The entire sport of professional wrestling and the National Wrestling Alliance sends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Harley. pic.twitter.com/rEiHknbYn1
— NWA (@nwa) August 1, 2019
Related: Nick Aldis Talks To Harley Race About The Prestige Of The NWA Championship
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAupF9j74ds&t=1s
