Wrestling Icon Who Shaped Generations of Champions Dies at 85

Clear Facts

• Dory Funk Jr., legendary pro wrestler and NWA World Champion, has passed away at age 85
• Funk held the NWA world championship for more than four years starting in 1969
• He trained countless wrestling stars including Kurt Angle, Adam Copeland, and Lita at The Funking Conservatory

Dory Funk Jr., a pioneering force in professional wrestling who competed across the globe and mentored generations of future champions, has died at 85, WWE announced Tuesday. The Texas native’s career spanned more than five decades and left an indelible mark on the industry.

Funk transitioned from college football at West Texas A&M University directly into professional wrestling in 1963. His natural athleticism and hard-nosed style quickly distinguished him in an era defined by rugged, technical performers.

“Saddened to announce the passing of Dory Funk, Jr.,” WWE chief content officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque wrote on X.

“From the Double Cross Ranch to the @WWE Hall of Fame, Dory’s style inspired countless performers in our industry. Whether it was at WrestleMania 2, WCW, ECW, or the dozens of NWA-affiliated promotions, his travels across North America and Asia were a part of the early blueprint that helped build this business into a global phenomena.”

Beginning his career in his father Dory Funk Sr.’s Western States Sports promotion, Funk gained invaluable experience wrestling alongside legends like Harley Race. In 1969, he achieved the pinnacle of the sport by capturing the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) World Heavyweight Championship, a title he defended successfully for more than four years—a reign that cemented his legacy as one of wrestling’s all-time greats.

“The National Wrestling Alliance is saddened to note the passing of Hall of Fame former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion Dory Funk Jr.,” the NWA said in a statement.

“The National Wrestling Alliance sends its most heartfelt wishes to the family, friends and fans of Dory Funk Jr., a true legend whose contributions to professional wrestling are still felt and celebrated to this day.”

Funk competed in WWE (then the World Wrestling Federation) in 1986, teaming with his brother Terry. He faced notable opponents including Junkyard Dog, Tito Santana, and Pedro Morales during his year-long tenure. His career also included memorable runs in All Japan Pro Wrestling, Extreme Championship Wrestling, and numerous other promotions before his final match in 2017.

In 2009, WWE inducted Funk into its Hall of Fame as part of a tag team with his brother Terry. The prestigious class also included The Von Erichs, Bill Watts, Howard Finkel, Koko B. Ware, Ricky Steamboat, and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.

Perhaps Funk’s most enduring contribution to professional wrestling came through his training school, The Funking Conservatory. There, he passed on his knowledge and old-school techniques to future stars including Kurt Angle, Adam Copeland, Christian Cage, Mickie James, and Lita. His emphasis on fundamental wrestling skills and discipline shaped careers that would define the next era of the sport.

Funk’s influence extended beyond championship reigns and memorable matches—he represented a bridge between wrestling’s territorial days and its modern global reach. His dedication to the craft and commitment to developing new talent ensured that traditional wrestling values would survive in an evolving industry.

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