Tributes flow as WWE legend Mr Wonderful dies aged 71

The wrestling world is in mourning today as tributes flow after WWE hall of famer Mr Wonderful died, his son revealed in an emotional post.

WWE Hall of Famer Paul Orndorff has died aged 71 after battling dementia and head trauma.

His son confirmed that Mr Wonderful passed away in an Instagram post on Monday.

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“It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my father, Paul Parlette Orndorff Jr,” Travis Orndorff wrote.

“He is better known as “Mr. #1derful” Paul Orndorff. Most of you will remember him for his physique. Many will remember his intensity. But if I could only get you to understand and see his heart.

“He will always be Pop, Paw Paw, and Daddy at home. And as much as many of you hated him as a wrestler, he absolutely loved you for it. He was an amazing father that showed me more love than I ever deserved. I love you Daddy.”

Alongside the heartfelt caption was a photograph of Travis hugging his dad.

He explained that his father had been battling with dementia, which he believes was caused by chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

The condition happens when someone suffers repeated head trauma, however, it can only be diagnosed once someone has passed away.

It is not clear if an autopsy has been done yet.

Leading the tributes was fellow wrestler Hulk Hogan who said that he was “slammed” by the news of Orndoff’s death on Monday.

“Just got slammed with the Paul Orndorff news, RIP my brother, love you and thank you for always making me fight for everything in our matches, heaven just got even more Wonderful, love U4LifeHH,” he wrote.

Orndorff joined WWE back in 1983. While he was here, he was given the name of Mr Wonderful by his then-manager, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper.

His career highlights included competing alongside the likes of Hulk Hogan and Mr T.

Orndorff’s family created a GoFundMe page in order to raise money for the icon’s funeral.

On the page, Travis’s wife, Amayou Smith, wrote: “Hi my name is Amayou, my husband is Travis Orndorff.

“As some of you may know we are preparing for Paul ‘Mr Wonderful’ Orndorff’s final farewell.

“Travis wants to give everyone, including fans, the opportunity to Donate to Paul’s final expenses. All donations and love gifts are appreciated.”

This story first appeared in The Sun and was republished with permission.