Toby Keith has passed away after a long battle with stomach cancer. He was 62.
The country music star died on Monday, confirmed by a statement on his official website.
“Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”
Keith announced his stomach cancer diagnosis in 2022.
Toby Keith is best known for his work in the world of country music, creating hits like “How Do You Like Me Now?!,” “Red Solo Cup,” and “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.” However, some fans will remember Keith has a connection to pro wrestling, as he made appearances for TNA Wrestling and WWE over the years.
Keith appeared on the first couple of TNA pay-per-views back in 2002, entering a brief on-air angle with Jeff Jarrett. At one point, Jarrett and Keith tried to buy TNA together, with Jarrett explaining how they first linked up on a recent episode of his My World podcast.
Toby Keith also guest hosted WWE RAW in October 2010.
Why TNA and Toby Keith didn’t work out
Jim Ross previously shared some details about Keith’s bid to invest in the company in a blog on his website. According to Ross, Keith wanted full control of the company, which was not something TNA was willing to do.
“More unsettling rumors rolling out of Nashville regarding the financial health of TNA Impact Wrestling. Apparently a new investor or buyer is at play for the struggling company. Without significant, live event revenue and a viable, PPV component in the revenue mix it will not be surprising to hear of any pro wrestling company being in financial peril. I hope that the eventual fate of TNA is much different than those within the company and others close to the matter are saying. Nonetheless, it is somewhat obvious that the next few months are going to be crucial in determining the future of the company.
As I’ve said before, it may be best for the company to re-brand themselves and move on from the public perception that the brand currently has in the marketplace. New name..new philosophy..new approach to their presentation based on the talents that they have to work with on a regular basis.
My Oklahoma friend Toby Keith had a legit interest in buying TNA in the past and he and I discussed my potential involvement of which I was interested working with Toby. He was ready to write a check but he had to have full control with no restrictions regarding creative, etc and that was not on the table.”
