One of the greatest legends in the history of professional wrestling has passed away.
Dusty Rhodes (Virgil Runnels) passed away Thursday at the age of 69, according to the World Wrestling Entertainment website.
Rhodes, known as "The American Dream", is a three time world champion. Two of his children, Dustin and Cody, followed him into the wrestling business.
He is best known for barnstorming the country, having feuds with Ric Flair, Superstar Billy Graham and others. His finishing maneuver, the "Bionic Elbow", was also a Rhodes trademark.
He wrestled several times in Jacksonville at the old Veterans Memorial Coliseum as part of the now defunct "Championship Wrestling from Florida".
He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007.
Fans have been sharing their memories of Rhodes on the First Coast News Facebook Page. Here are a few of them:
Rebecca EdwardsMy grandma used to watch him every Saturday and then when I had my sons they all watched it faithfully. Now my Lil granddaughter KK she is 8 years old and loves wrestling . She even knows who Dusty Rhodes is. Omg!! My oldest brother took me to the Memorial Coliseum to see him wrestling when I was 10 years old. I remember it was exciting and fun to watch. Wow !! He will certainly be missed. R.I.P. Mr. Dusty Rhodes! Prayers for this family.....
Jeremiah JohnsonJuly 1987 Great American Bash in Jacksonville! Dusty Rhodes, Nikita Koloff & The Road Warriors vs The Four Horsemen!!! Just the most charismatic performer ever...
Shari L Conklin-FergusonI still have the ticket's from seeing wrestling in Jacksonville as a kid. Remember seeing Dusty Rhodes, Andre the Giant, The Brisco Brother's etc....... Ring side tickets were $5.00. Oh the great memory's......
