From co-workers to sports columnists to devoted fans, the death of former professional wrestler Dusty Rhodes is sparking reaction, buzz and memories.
"I loved this man," said one fan from South Carolina, posting on the AJC's online guestbook. "He was my favorite wrestler when I was growing up."
Other remembrances stressed his varied roles outside of wrestling — and the number of titles that were used to describe the WWE's Virgil Runnels, whose wrestling name was “The American Dream Dusty Rhodes.”
The WWE recalled Dusty Rhodes as "a caring husband and a creative visionary who helped shape the landscape of WWE long after his in-ring career had ended."
AJC blogger and sports writer David O'Brien's reaction on Twitter summoned a host of images. "R.I.P., Dusty Rhodes," O'Brien tweeted. "The American Dream, the Tower of Power, too sweet to be sour, the Toast of the Coast, the One the Ladies Love Most."
Read more reaction from social media.
Other fans are posting memories and condolences in our online guestbook.
WWE announced Rhodes' death Thursday, providing few details. No memorial plans were announced as of Friday morning. He was 69. Dusty Rhodes remained with WWE after retiring from wrestlting and was working at WWE's Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Read an expanded article about Dusty Rhodes.
Here is a sample of comments and condolences posted in our online guestbook.
"I have known Dusty Rhodes for quite a few years. He was a friend and father and he will be missed greatly. My condolences to his family. R.I.P" - See more
"Sending lots of love and prayers to the Runnels family, Dusty Rhodes will be dearly missed. RIP Very Heartbreaking."- See more
Read and sign the online guestbook for Victor Runnels, aka The American Dream Dusty Rhodes
