He deserves it. There have been countless wrestlers throughout history but only a few of them have been truly influential. A small number of wrestlers have influenced other major names and it is going to mean a lot when one such wrestler passes away. As much of an influence as they have, it can be incredible to see people’s reactions to their passing away. Now we are seeing that take place again.
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Earlier this week, Superstar Billy Graham passed away at age 79. Graham was an influence on names such as Hulk Hogan, Jesse Ventura and Scott Steiner, among several others. Following his passing, a variety of wrestlers and wrestling personalities have paid tribute to Graham on Twitter. In addition, WWE has released a tribute video to Graham on YouTube. Here are some of the tributes:
There wouldn't be a Jesse "The Body" Ventura without the in-ring success and trailblazing showmanship of Superstar Billy Graham. One of my proudest wrestling memories was having the honor of being inducted into the same WWE Hall of Fame class as Graham. Rest In Power Superstar.
— Jesse Ventura (@GovJVentura) May 18, 2023
Before Billy Graham, performers in WWWF / WWF/ WWE were known as professional wrestlers. After Billy Graham left his mark, Vincent Kennedy McMahon decided everyone would be a WWE Superstar. A most heartfelt RIP to the man of the hour, the man with the power, too sweet to be sour! pic.twitter.com/bwL6UQ3c3h
— Paul Heyman (@HeymanHustle) May 18, 2023
Prayers for one of the greatest heels/entertainers and most influential wrestlers of all time…Superstar Billy Graham ????
ps…just listen to that crowd.
— Bully Ray (@bullyray5150) May 16, 2023
RIP Superstar.
Quite possibly the biggest game-changer of all time. Because of Billy Graham, we got Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair, not to mention countless others who made fortunes borrowing from this man. Say his name and remember him.
"Superstar" Billy Graham. 1943-2023 pic.twitter.com/7ZVqs4muo3
— Nick Aldis (@RealNickAldis) May 18, 2023
https://twitter.com/OfficialHTM/status/1659020436875919360
Eldridge Wayne Coleman??A Master On The Microphone?& One of The “Greatest” Promo’s In Our Glorious Business?? R.I.P. Superstar Billy Graham??
— SGT SLAUGHTER (@_SgtSlaughter) May 18, 2023
AEW joins the wrestling world in mourning the passing of Superstar Billy Graham. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans. pic.twitter.com/nf3t7aEtvJ
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) May 18, 2023
Graham had some great moments in his career. Check out WWE’s tributes and a look at his career:
Opinion: This is the kind of thing that can be incredible to see but that doesn’t make it something you want to happen. Graham is one of the most important stars in wrestling history as he really did get the idea of being a sports entertainer. He really did chance the way wrestling was presented and thankfully the industry and fans can see a lot of what Graham did that made him so special.
What do you think of Graham’s career? What was your favorite of his promos? Let us know in the comments below.
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You can find more from Thomas Hall at kbwrestlingreviews.com, or check out his- Amazon author page with 30 wrestling books.
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