“Rip Legend”: Mick Foley, JBL, and Many More Left Devastated as NFL Goat and WWE Veteran Passes Away at 80

An NFL legend passed away last night due to unknown circumstances with both realms of sports pouring in their condolences. Cherished memories and tributes came in for a star who many consider one of the greatest linebackers of all time. Though he is gone, he will always remain a popular figure in the history of the Chicago Bears franchise.

Last night, he received tributes from the football world as franchises tweeted condolences on social media for him. Many wrestling legends, including Mick Foley and JBL, also shared their thoughts on his demise.

Dick Butkus who forged history at WrestleMania 2 passes away

WWE tweeted on X on October 5th a picture of NFL Legend and former LB of Chicago Bears, Dick Butkus. Butkus passed away last night after he was found dead at his home in Malibu after he suffered from a medical emergency around late night. The cause of his death is unknown as the autopsy will be performed in a few days.

Since the news of his death spread around, condolences started pouring in from the pro-football world and wrestling world. Butkus was a guest referee at WrestleMania 2 Battle Royale featuring WWE and NFL stars. Hence, WWE did not forget to pay tribute to the NFL Legend. The message from WWE read, “WWE is saddened to learn that legendary NFL linebacker and Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, a special guest referee at WrestleMania 2, has passed away. WWE extends its condolences to Butkus’ family, friends and fans.”

Post-retirement, he worked as an analyst at CBS and also offered audiences with a unique filmography after entering Hollywood. He worked in movies like The Longest Yard, Gremlins 2: The New Batch and the television shows My Two Dads and Hang Time, MacGyver, etc. 

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His wife Helen, and their children Matt, Richard, and Nikki survive Butkus. At the time of his death, he was 80 years old and left behind a wealth of $8 million, most of which came from his football career. Perhaps, his biggest wealth is his legacy and fans who did not forget to express their feelings about his demise.

“Nicest man ever” Esteemed personalities pour out their emotions in touching tribute aimed at Butkus

WWE Hall of Famers such as Mick Foley and JBL laid out the cherished memories they hold of Butkus and paid their homages to the fallen star.

Another current WWE personality expressed his awe of the NFL icon and shared a delightful memory.

Despite Butkus targeting a Packers legend on social media, the football team put out a classy tribute

A member of the current Chicago Bears roster also put out his tribute in memory of Butkus.

A tribute poured in from an esteemed entertainment industry personality who highlighted the best traits of Butkus.

Butkus leaves behind a chiseled legacy across different realms of sport. However, more crucially, he leaves behind a memory of a man whose towering and delightful personality leaves a noticeable void across sports and life. We at EssentiallySports send our condolences to the family and friends of Dick Butkus.

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