Pro-wrestling fraternity lost another legend since ‘Mean’ Gene Okerlund is no more with us. WWE has confirmed that the legendary commentator cum host has passed away at the age of 76. No such reason was disclosed for the demise of this veteran who was a symbol of the old era of the WWE.
Here’s what they have posted as the official statement on their website,
“WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Gene Okerlund, the most recognizable interviewer in sports-entertainment history, has passed away at age 76.”
Gene Okerlund first came to the spotlight by working with the American Wrestling Association in 1984. His fellow Minnesotan, Jesse “The Body” Ventura has tagged the ‘mean’ word alongside his name. Tricky questions during interviews were his specialty that justified this nickname. He continued to set his own legacy, thereafter.
His interviews from old WWF shows with Macho Man” Randy Savage, The Ultimate Warrior and, perhaps Okerlund’s greatest guest, Hulk Hogan will be pure gems. The Hulkster would often greet Gene Okerlund back with the immortal phrase of “Well you know something ‘Mean’ Gene!” These segments became a benchmark that showed ways for the new generations like Renee Young, Mike Rome, Charly Caruso and more.
He was associated first with the WWF and then with WCW becoming an integral part of the Monday Night Wars. His signifying presence already earned the reputation of being the greatest sports entertainment interviewer in history. This happened even prior to the historic takeover of WCW by Vince McMahon that changed the course of the pro-wrestling history.
Gene Okerlund stayed there till the promotion was shut down in 1993. Apart from interviewing, we have seen him doing ringside commentary and hosting several shows. This included All-American Wrestling shows like Tuesday Night Titans, Wrestling Challenge and Prime Time Wrestling. During this phase, he stayed away from the rebranded WWE under the leadership of Vince McMahon.
He would eventually return to the company in 2001 to call the Gimmick Battle Royal at WrestleMania 17 alongside Bobby “The Brain” Heenan. This would lead to more such appearances on programming including the cast member of WWE Network’s Legends’ House. Hulk Hogan inducted Gene Okerlund into WWE Hall of Fame in 2006 to pay the ultimate tribute to the veteran. WWE signed him for a lifetime contract with the company, later.