WWE Legend King Kong Bundy has died at the age of 61.
The news was first reported by wrestling promoter David Herro on Twitter. WWE producer Shane Helms also commented on Bundy’s passing.
Today we lost a Legend of a performer and someone that I considered family. @RealKKBundy Rest In Peace my friend. Thank you for believing in me. #KingKongBundy pic.twitter.com/b53l4xjhGi
— David Herro (@DavidHerro) March 5, 2019
RIP my friend. Thanks for your humor and kindness. #KingKongBundy pic.twitter.com/MdzLtvyy6S
— Hurricane Helms (@ShaneHelmsCom) March 5, 2019
Bundy (Christopher Alan Pallies) began his training at the infamous ‘Monster Factory’ under Larry Sharpe, making his debut in 1981 for the World Wrestling Federation.
He wrestled in Texas for World Class under The Von Erich’s using the name ‘Big Daddy Bundy’, before using the name King Kong Bundy, turning heel under the tutelage of Gary Hart. He Fritz Von Erich’s opponent for Fritz’s 1982 retirement match at the Fritz Von Erich Retirement Show held at the Texas Stadium.
He made his return to the WWF as King Kong Bundy in 1985, infamously defeating S.D Jones in nine seconds at the first ever WrestleMania.
He was managed by Bobby ‘The Brain’ Heenan, where he feuded with Andre The Giant and Hulk Hogan, with the latter facing him for the WWF Championship at WrestleMania 2.
He was also involved in another infamous WrestleMania moment, where he teamed with Little Tokyo and Lord Littlebrook against Hillbilly Jim, the Haiti Kid and Little Beaver. He slammed the midget wrestler Little Beaver, in a moment which has been replayed around the world.
He went into semi-retirement in 1988, before resurfacing for a third spell with the WWF in 1994 as part of the Million Dollar Corporation. He left again in 1995, wrestling on the indies until quietly stepping away in a full-time role in 2007.
There’s no word yet on what led to Bundy’s passing or when exactly it happened, but we will keep you updated.
TWM offers their condolences to the friends and family of Pallies.