In 2017, the professional wrestling world mourned several prominent figures whose passing resonated across the industry and among longtime fans. These losses highlighted the physical and health challenges many wrestlers face over their careers.
This article remembers key wrestlers who died in 2017, explores circumstances around their deaths, and provides comparisons to related topics, while answering common questions from the community.
| Name | Age at Death | Date of Death | Known For / Main Promotion | Reported Cause |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dory Funk Jr. | 74 | June 3, 2017 | National Wrestling Alliance, Stampede Wrestling | Heart attack |
| Ric Flair | 69 | June 10, 2017 | WWE, NWA, WCW | Complications from procedures |
| Jay Briscoe | 38 | January 17, 2017 | Ring of Honor, various independent circuits | Car accident |
| Koko B. Ware | 76 | March 19, 2017 | WWF/WWE, AJPW | Complications from Alzheimer’s disease |
| Johnny Valiant | 74 | June 4, 2017 | WWWF, various regional promotions | Natural causes |
Health Risks and Long-Term Effects in Wrestling
Physical Toll and Career Impact
Wrestling carries inherent health risks, including head trauma, joint damage, and cardiovascular issues. Several high-profile deaths in 2017 underscored how cumulative injuries and age can affect former athletes long after retirement.
Industry Response and Safety Discussions
Following these losses, many organizations revisited medical protocols, insurance coverage, and support programs for retirees. Conversations about improving long-term care for performers gained urgency within the community.
Notable Deaths and Career Highlights
Dory Funk Jr.: A Legend of Hardcore and Training
Dory Funk Jr. was celebrated for his hardcore wrestling style and for running the legendary Funking Conservatory training facility. His death in June 2017 at age 74 from a heart attack emphasized the need for ongoing cardiac awareness among older athletes.
Ric Flair: The Nature Boy’s Enduring Influence
Ric Flair’s flashy in-ring persona and championship success made him an icon. After experiencing complications from medical procedures in June 2017, he became an advocate for patient advocacy and transparency in treatment.
Accidents and External Factors
Jay Briscoe: Remembering a Ring General
Jay Briscoe’s life was cut short in a car accident in January 2017 at age 38. As a multiple world champion in Ring of Honor, his passing shocked fans and prompted discussions about road safety for traveling performers.
Koko B. Ware and Johnny Valiant: Legacy and Recognition
Koko B. Ware, known for his high-flying style and signature bird suit, died in March 2017 from Alzheimer’s complications, highlighting neurological risks in aging wrestlers. Johnny Valiant, celebrated as a manager and tag team performer, passed in June 2017 from natural causes, reminding fans of the quieter but vital roles in wrestling history.
Industry Impact and Legacy
The deaths in 2017 affected not only peers and promotions but also fans who grew up watching these performers. Memorials, charity campaigns, and retrospective features helped channel grief into support for current wrestlers and their families.
Documentaries and podcasts revisiting their careers have sustained their influence, ensuring that their contributions to storytelling, athleticism, and entertainment remain relevant for new audiences.
Remembering Their Contributions
- Recognize the physical demands and long-term health risks faced by professional wrestlers.
- Support initiatives that improve medical care and financial assistance for retired performers.
- Explore documentaries and interviews to better understand their careers and personal journeys.
- Honor their legacies by advocating for safer working conditions in wrestling today.
FAQ
Reader questions
What medical conditions were reported for wrestlers who died in 2017?
Reported causes included heart attack, complications from medical procedures, Alzheimer’s disease, and natural causes, reflecting a range of health challenges common in older former athletes.
Did any of these deaths lead to changes in wrestling safety protocols?
Yes, the high-profile losses prompted many promotions to review concussion protocols, expand health insurance options, and increase support for retirees’ medical needs.
Which wrestlers who died in 2017 had the biggest cultural impact?
Ric Flair and Dory Funk Jr. are frequently cited for their lasting influence on style, training, and business within the industry, shaping how future generations approach the craft.
How are the legacies of these wrestlers preserved today?
Through documentaries, podcasts, Hall of Fame inductions, and in-ring tributes, their stories continue to educate fans about wrestling history and the human side of sports entertainment.