WWE Hall Of Famer George The Animal Steele Passes Away

02/17/2017 10:19 am EST

WWE Hall of Famer George "The Animal" Steele, one of the WWE's most legendary characters of the 70s and 80s has reportedly passed away at age 79. Hulk Hogan first tweeted the news this morning and it was later confirmed by WWE.com .

Yesterday, Bob Backlund, another WWE Hall of Famer, attempted to check on Steele and received a concerning message from The Animal's wife.

Last May, Steele tweeted a message on his own page about his health problems.

Originally a wily heel in the WWE (then WWF), The Animal would become a lovable babyface in the late 80s when he took a pivotal role in Ricky The Dragon Steamboat's infamous feud with Macho Man Randy Savage. Known for his green tongue, crazy body hair and penchant for ripping up the turnbuckles, Steele was one of the most beloved superstars in wrestling history.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to George Steele's friends and family.

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