WWE community mourns loss of legend ‘Mean’ Gene Okerlund

WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Gene Okerlund, the most recognizable interviewer in sports-entertainment history, has passed away at age 76. https://t.co/DyPiEiVLoV

— WWE (@WWE) January 2, 2019

Mean Gene was universally loved by everyone I’ve met that knew him.

Very few people can say that their work will forever be appreciated and remembered. Very few can legitimately claim to be legends in their field.

Those things can undoubtedly be said about him. #RIPMeanGene

— Soon. (@FightOwensFight) January 2, 2019

My personal favorite “Mean Gene” memory: when I was a student at Syracuse University I hosted a Saturday morning combat sports radio show. No one listened. I emailed Okerlund once to ask if he would be a guest. Instead of just writing me back he actually called me to say yes.

— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) January 2, 2019

Mean Gene I love you my brother HH

— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) January 2, 2019

One Of My Closest Friends Since 1972 Until This Very Sad Day In 2019. Not Only The Greatest Voice And Personality In The History Of Announcing, But A Man Who Touched Everyone’s Life Who Were Fortunate Enough To Know Him. Rest In Peace Knowing No One Will Ever Replace You. pic.twitter.com/i7illbxQgw

— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) January 2, 2019

A voice and sound track to an entire era of our industry. He was the star of some of @WWE’s most memorable segments. “Mean Gene” was beloved by all who got to work with him. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. https://t.co/9ddj6372eE

— Triple H (@TripleH) January 2, 2019

Mean Gene was one of my favorite people to be around. He was a man who loved the pro wrestling business and everything it had to offer. And treated everyone the same no matter who you were. He is a reminder to enjoy every step of whatever your journey is. #ripmeangene

— Jonathan Coachman (@TheCoachrules) January 2, 2019

Very seldom does an interviewer become just as popular, and at times even more popular than the superstars he/she interviews. Gene Okerlund was that person. Im saddened to hear of Gene’s passing. It was an honor to know you Gene! #RIPGene

— Kurt Angle (@RealKurtAngle) January 2, 2019

Gene Okerlund was always a consummate pro. His iconic voice, personality, and talent helped so many superstars climb to the top.
I am deeply saddened by his passing. RIP Mean Gene.

— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) January 2, 2019

The very first WWE PPV we watched/ordered was Wrestlemania 9 & it was all thanks to Mean Gene Okerlund.

Nobody “sold” PPV’s, hyped matches or carried interviews like Mean Gene.

RIP to the voice of our childhood. #RIPGeneOkerlund

— Singh Brothers (@SinghBrosWWE) January 2, 2019

I will forever remember this amazing human being @wwe Hall of Famer “Mean” Gene Okerlund! Gene was a class act! Always had such a smile on his face when he greeted me and the warmest hug! Gene, I thank you for your kindness & making such an impact in this world!! RIP Gene! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/iHu0K5CRiW

— Lilian Garcia (@LilianGarcia) January 2, 2019

I now wish I can spend the whole day watching old “Mean” Gene Okerlund interviews. He made every one stand out and so memorable. Glad there are so many hours of these to be appreciated by generations of fans watching them on #WWE Network. pic.twitter.com/56EAhayscy

— Scott Fishman (@smFISHMAN) January 2, 2019