Dusty Rhodes Cause of Death

Dusty Rhodes, born Virgil Riley Runnels Jr. on October 11, 1945, in Austin, Texas, was a professional wrestler, booker, and trainer who became one of the most beloved figures in the history of wrestling. Known as “The American Dream,” he was recognized for his blue-collar persona, captivating storytelling, and connection with audiences. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing about 275 pounds, Rhodes wasn’t the stereotypical muscle-bound wrestler; instead, he used his charisma, work ethic, and relatability to earn the love of fans.

Throughout his career, Rhodes became a multiple-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion, securing championships across various territories. He wasn’t just a star in the ring but also made significant contributions behind the scenes, mentoring and training a generation of wrestlers who would go on to carry on his legacy.

Dusty Rhodes’ Impact on Professional Wrestling

Dusty Rhodes was one of the most influential figures in professional wrestling during the 1970s and 1980s. He was known for his larger-than-life character, his compelling promos, and his ability to connect with the audience, particularly those from working-class backgrounds. His “American Dream” persona resonated with fans, making him a symbol of resilience and triumph.

Rhodes’ work as both a performer and a booker helped shape the modern wrestling landscape. He was an integral part of the NWA, where he engaged in memorable feuds with wrestling legends like Ric Flair, and his rivalry with Flair became one of the most iconic storylines in wrestling history. Rhodes wasn’t just about the fights in the ring—his ability to create emotional narratives around his matches helped elevate the entire profession.

Aside from his in-ring success, Dusty Rhodes was also a key figure in the development of young wrestlers. He served as a trainer for many future stars, including his sons Dustin and Cody Rhodes, who would go on to have successful wrestling careers of their own. His influence on the industry was vast, with many wrestlers citing him as a mentor and a source of inspiration.

Understanding Dusty Rhodes’ Cause of Death

When Did Dusty Rhodes Pass Away?

Dusty Rhodes passed away on June 11, 2015, at the age of 69. His death came as a shock to fans around the world, as he had remained active in the wrestling world as a trainer and an ambassador for WWE. Rhodes’ passing occurred in Orlando, Florida, where he had been living. He was found unresponsive at his home and was rushed to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The news devastated the wrestling community, and tributes poured in from fans and fellow wrestlers alike.

Official Cause of Death

The official cause of Dusty Rhodes’ death was kidney failure. In the years leading up to his death, Rhodes had been struggling with health issues related to his kidneys. Despite keeping much of his health battles private, it was reported that Rhodes had been suffering from kidney disease. Kidney failure can be a result of many factors, and in Rhodes’ case, it was a combination of his age and the toll that a physically demanding career had taken on his body.

Health Issues Leading Up to His Death

Throughout his career, Rhodes endured the physical toll that many wrestlers face, including injuries, surgeries, and long-term wear and tear on the body. As he entered his later years, his health began to decline. While he had largely kept his health issues out of the public eye, it became apparent that his body had been affected by the grueling demands of professional wrestling.

Dusty Rhodes had previously undergone surgery to address some of the health issues caused by his wrestling career. His passing was a reminder of the lasting impact that the physical demands of the sport can have on an individual, even long after they retire. Although Rhodes had maintained a relatively low profile in his final years, his death underscored the importance of taking care of one’s health, especially for those who have had long, physically demanding careers.

Reactions to Dusty Rhodes’ Death

Tributes from the Wrestling Community

The news of Dusty Rhodes’ passing was met with an overwhelming outpouring of grief and tributes from all corners of the wrestling world. WWE, where Rhodes had spent a significant portion of his post-wrestling career as a trainer and mentor, paid tribute to him with a special segment. On WWE’s Money in the Bank pay-per-view event, a 10-bell salute was held in his honor, and a video tribute aired on the following episode of Raw.

Wrestlers, both past and present, shared heartfelt messages on social media, remembering Dusty Rhodes not just as a legend in the ring, but as a mentor, a friend, and a father figure to many. Notable figures such as Ric Flair, Shawn Michaels, and John Cena all expressed their sadness and admiration for Rhodes’ contributions to the sport.

Memorials and Honors

Dusty Rhodes was honored in many ways after his passing. WWE held several memorial services and tributes to honor his legacy. Additionally, fans and fellow wrestlers took to social media to share their personal stories about how Rhodes had impacted their careers. In 2015, Rhodes’ son, Dustin, spread his father’s ashes on a ranch in Florida that Rhodes had loved, symbolizing a personal tribute to the man who had been such a profound influence on his life.

Dusty Rhodes’ Legacy in Wrestling

His Lasting Influence

Dusty Rhodes’ legacy extends far beyond his time in the ring. He not only shaped the future of professional wrestling with his unforgettable matches and storylines, but he also left an indelible mark on the next generation of wrestlers. Many of today’s top wrestlers credit Rhodes for his mentorship and the lessons he taught them about the importance of storytelling, connecting with fans, and understanding the art of professional wrestling. His ability to transcend the role of wrestler to that of a mentor and coach made him a cornerstone of the wrestling community.

Remembering Dusty Rhodes

Dusty Rhodes’ contributions to the world of wrestling will never be forgotten. Key moments such as his legendary feuds with Ric Flair, his role in the NWA, and his remarkable work as a trainer and mentor to future superstars, continue to be celebrated. Tributes to Rhodes are ongoing, with wrestling fans worldwide continuing to honor his memory through various events, documentaries, and social media posts. His legacy as “The American Dream” is forever cemented in the history of professional wrestling.

Conclusion

Dusty Rhodes, the “American Dream,” was much more than just a professional wrestler—he was a symbol of hard work, perseverance, and the power of storytelling in the ring. His death in 2015 left a void in the wrestling world, but his impact on the sport, the wrestlers he mentored, and the fans he entertained will never be forgotten. Through his unforgettable matches, his mentorship, and his enduring legacy, Dusty Rhodes remains a true legend of professional wrestling.