Pat Patterson got here out as homosexual throughout a section on WWE Legends’ Home in 2014. (George Napolitano/MediaPunch /IPX)

WWE Corridor of Famer Pat Patterson died Wednesday. He was 79.

Patterson’s profession with WWE spanned a number of many years. He made his WWE debut in 1979, and remained with the corporate in a backstage function till his demise. Within the ring, Patterson developed feuds with Ted DiBiase, Bob Backlund and Sgt. Slaughter. In 1979, Patterson grew to become the primary wrestler to carry the Intercontinental title.

In a press release, WWE mentioned Patterson “left an indelible mark on the trade within the ring, on the microphone and behind the scenes.”

After retiring in 1984, Patterson took a backstage function, the place he labored intently with Vince McMahon. Patterson continued to wrestle sometimes, but additionally served as a referee and commentator. Patterson is credited with developing with the thought for the Royal Rumble.

In 1990, Patterson resigned from WWE after being accused of sexual harassment by former announcer Murray Hodgson. These prices have been dropped, and Patterson re-joined the corporate.

Patterson was inducted into the WWE Corridor of Fame in 1996. Bret Hart inducted Patterson into the Corridor of Fame.

In 2014, Patterson got here out as homosexual throughout a section on WWE Legends’ Home.

Patterson wrote a ebook about his expertise in 2016 titled “Accepted: How the First Homosexual Celebrity Modified WWE.”

WWE stars react to Pat Patterson’s demise

Following Patterson’s demise, various WWE stars paid tribute to Patterson on social media.

Loss is extremely troublesome. These we love are solely really gone if we cease caring. Pat Patterson lived life correctly lived with ardour, love and goal. He helped so many and all the time entertained with a narrative or joke. He’ll stay on in my life all the time. Love you Patrick.

— John Cena (@JohnCena) December 2, 2020

No phrases can describe what he gave to us. His physique as an in-ring performer, his thoughts as a storyteller, and his spirit as a beloved member of our massive @WWE household. I’ll miss him for therefore many causes… it’s by no means goodbye, it’s see ya down the highway. Love you, Pat. Abooze

— Triple H (@TripleH) December 2, 2020

Very saddened to listen to in regards to the passing of one in all my greatest associates..Pat Patterson. He had an infectious character the place you all the time wished to be round him. This picture of Pat, @ShawnMichaels and me was from Wrestlemania 21. Pat helped us create an unbelievable Story. #RIPHOFer pic.twitter.com/APHVs7hRoi

— Kurt Angle (@RealKurtAngle) December 2, 2020

PAT PATTERSON I DONT KNOW WHAT TO SAY OTHER THAN I LOVE YOU. YOU HAVE BEAUTIFUL MIND FOR THIS BUSINESS AND BEAUTIFUL HEART FOR THIS WORLD. MY HEART IS BROKEN. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP #rip pic.twitter.com/XASbSUG0qO

— The Iron Sheik (@the_ironsheik) December 2, 2020

#RIPPatPatterson I’m deeply grateful to have grown up with @wwe Corridor of Famer, the first-ever Intercontinental Champion, the daddy of the #RoyalRumble and the primary brazenly homosexual wrestler of his era. Thanks for instructing me the way to not take all of it so severely. Abooze

— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) December 2, 2020

I can’t categorical how crushed I really feel proper now with the lack of Pat Patterson. A real member of my household, mentor and expensive good friend.

I like you Pat.

God velocity. pic.twitter.com/FdaAFnsw8m

— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) December 2, 2020

Simply heard of the passing this morning if the nice, Pat Patterson.

True legend of the professional wrestling enterprise.

An exquisite mentor who taught me a lot.

RIP outdated good friend.



pic.twitter.com/t61R9yCze1

— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) December 2, 2020

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