The WWE world is in mourning this week after the death of the legendary trailblazer Pat Patterson, who passed away after a long battle with cancer. He was 79 years-old.
“WWE is saddened to learn that Pat Patterson has passed away at the age of 79,” WWE said in a statement, according to The New York Post. “A true trailblazer of the industry, Patterson was linked to many ‘firsts’ in sports-entertainment throughout his storied career, including the first-ever Intercontinental Title reign and the creation of the Royal Rumble Match.”
“In a career spanning six decades, the renaissance man left an indelible mark on the industry in the ring, on the microphone and behind the scenes,” WWE added. “In his 25-plus years in WWE, Patterson was synonymous with making history. From the Intercontinental Title to the Royal Rumble Match and beyond, his name will forever be revered in WWE lore.”
Patterson, who was born Pierre Clermont, was known for being WWE’s first gay superstar.
A native of Montreal, Patterson launched his wrestling career in Canada in 1958. He then moved to the Bay Area, where he made a name for himself before moving on to WWE and then WWF, going on to become the company’s first Intercontinental Champion.
Though Patterson retired from the ring in 1984, he proceeded to have a hugely successful career as an announcer and WWE executive. He is even credited with inventing the Royal Rumble.
Patterson officially came out as gay in 2014, and he was in a forty year relationship with his partner Louie Dondero, who died of a heart attack in 1998.
Tributes have been pouring in for Patterson from various big names in the wrestling world since his passing was announced. The iconic former WWE star John Cena said that he will always remember Patterson’s friendly demeanor and zest for life.
“Pat Patterson lived life as it should be lived with passion, love and purpose,” Cena said in a statement. “He helped so many and always entertained with a story or joke. He will live on in my life always. Love you Patrick.”
I can not express how crushed I feel right now with the loss of Pat Patterson. A true member of my family, mentor and dear friend.
I love you Pat.
God speed. pic.twitter.com/FdaAFnsw8m— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) December 2, 2020
#RIPPatPatterson I’m deeply grateful to have grown up with @wwe Hall of Famer, the first-ever Intercontinental Champion, the father of the #RoyalRumble and the first openly gay wrestler of his generation. Thank you for teaching me how to not take it all so seriously. Abooze ❤️
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) December 2, 2020
No words can describe what he gave to us. His body as an in-ring performer, his mind as a storyteller, and his spirit as a beloved member of our large @WWE family. I will miss him for so many reasons… it’s never goodbye, it’s see ya down the road. Love you, Pat. Abooze
— Triple H (@TripleH) December 2, 2020
Patterson talked about his own journey in his 2016 autobiography, “Accepted: How the First Gay Superstar Changed WWE.”
Rest in peace, Pat Patterson.
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