WWE legend Ultimate Warrior has died aged 54.
Wrestling fans have been left reeling following the death of the iconic grappler – real name James Hellwig – yesterday (08.04.14), just days after he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Saturday night (05.04.14).
WWE announced the news on its official website, posting a statement which read: "WWE is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the most iconic WWE Superstars ever, The Ultimate Warrior.
"WWE sends its sincere condolences to Warrior’s family, friends and fans."
The cause of death has not yet been revealed.
Ultimate Warrior made his return to WWE television after an 18-year absence over the weekend, leading the WWE’s Hall of Fame Class of 2014.
He also appeared on the company’s hit TV show ‘RAW’ on Monday (07.04.14) – just hours before his death – and at ‘WrestleMania XXX’ on Sunday night (06.04.14).
Tributes have poured in from the wrestling world, many of whom are in deep shock over Warrior’s sudden death as they had just spent time with him over the weekend.
WWE owner Vince McMahon wrote on Twitter: "We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters."
Fellow WWE icon Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson tweeted: "Loss always has a way of reminding us to live and love as greatly as we can. My prayers and strength to his family. RIP Ultimate Warrior."
Fellow Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan – who hosted ‘WrestleMania XXX’ – also took to Twitter to write: "RIP WARRIOR. only love. HH (sic)"
WWE legend Ultimate Warrior dies
