It is with deep sadness to announce that legendary promoter, 10-time AWA World Heavyweight Champion, WCW Hall of Famer and WWE Hall of Famer Verne Gagne has passed away aged 89.

Gagne, who was an accomplished amateur wrestler that had a hand in training the likes of Ric Flair, Bob Backlund, Curt Hennig, Ricky Steamboat and The Iron Sheik amongst others was best known for his in-ring work, as well as promoting and operating the American Wrestling Association (AWA) as mentioned above for several decades until its closure in 1991.

On behalf of Wrestling-News.Net, we would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Gagne.