Rowdy Roddy Piper, born Roderick George Toombs, started his WWE career in the 70s. He was known for his memorable feuds with many different legends.
The news of Piper’s death was confirmed by his agent Jay Schacter in an email stating that the hall of famer passed peacefully in his sleep.
Roddy Piper was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2006 but was deemed cancer-free in November that year.
WWE chairman and Vince McMahon said in a statement that, “Roddy Piper was one of the most entertaining, controversial and bombastic performers ever in WWE, beloved by millions of fans around the world. I extend my deepest condolences to his family.”
Many WWE superstars also posted their condolences on social media website Twitter.
“Rowdy” Roddy Piper passed away today at the age of 61. Details: https://t.co/Y4JPuIYl2c pic.twitter.com/1bc5PoLTmh
— WWE (@WWE) July 31, 2015
Saddened about the passing of “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. He was truly a legend and icon, and will never be forgotten… #ThankYouRoddy #RIP
— Triple H (@TripleH) July 31, 2015
#RIPRoddyPiper Thank you for so many memories. You will always be one of my all time favorites. pic.twitter.com/IIcONTfyAk
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) July 31, 2015
Landed at home & heard of the passing of Roddy Piper. He was always wonderful to me & I will miss him greatly! My condolences to his family.
— Shawn Michaels (@ShawnMichaels) July 31, 2015
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Roddy Piper’s passing. He was one of a kind and one of the all time greats. #prowrestling
— Steve Austin (@steveaustinBSR) July 31, 2015
One of the true greats of all time. My heart goes out to his family and the fans he entertained over the years. RIP Rowdy.
— John Cena (@JohnCena) July 31, 2015
RIP legend. I first met this wrestling icon when I was 12yrs old when he was wrestling my pops the… https://t.co/fHoLoKQ47f
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) August 1, 2015