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Dory Funk Jr., Former NWA Champion and WWE Hall of Famer, Dies at 85
The former NWA World Heavyweight Champion was remembered as a mentor and trainer whose influence reached wrestling fans and athletes across multiple generations.
- On Tuesday, Heavyweight Champion Dory Funk died at 85, according to Brian Blair and the Cauliflower Alley Club, who announced he passed under hospice care alongside his wife, Marti.
- Funk and Terry Funk followed their father into professional wrestling, achieving success as tag team and singles wrestlers; both became NWA World Heavyweight Champion across North America and Japan.
- Inducted into the WWE Hall in 2009, Funk remained active as recently as 2024, known for a hard-nosed, rugged in-ring style and training athletes at house shows in Ocala, Florida.
- Levesque posted a message today sending his condolences to Dory's loved ones, while Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall member Dave Meltzer called Funk a "fantastic world champion" who elevated opponents.
- From the Double Cross Ranch to the WWE Hall, Funk's influence inspired countless performers; his matches with Jack Brisco defined the Florida wrestling style that helped build this global industry.
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KTSM
KTSMWrestling legend Dory Funk Jr. dies at 85
Wrestling and local legend Dory Funk, Jr. has died at the age of 85.
·Huntsville, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources44
Leaning Left7Leaning Right5Center18Last UpdatedBias Distribution60% Center
Bias Distribution
- 60% of the sources are Center
60% Center
L 23%
C 60%
R 17%
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