23 Wrestlers Who Have Died In 2019

3. 'Mean' Gene Okerlund

Gene Okerlund
WWE

There will never be another backstage announcer like the iconic 'Mean' Gene Okerlund. His composure, unwavering professionalism and knowledge of the product touched an entire generation of fans during the WWF's rise in the 80s. Years later, Gene was still going strong in WCW and occasionally popped back into view before his death on 2 January.

Okerlund left behind amazing stories, happy memories and goes down in history as one of the best stick men to ever grace the industry. His work was invaluable in helping the careers of characters like Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage flourish.

Pick up your phone and dial 1-900-909-9900 one more time. Just get your parents' permission before calling.

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Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood. Jamie started writing for WhatCulture in 2013, and has contributed thousands of articles and YouTube videos since then. He cut his teeth penning published pieces for top UK and European wrestling read Fighting Spirit Magazine (FSM), and also has extensive experience working within the wrestling biz as a manager and commentator for promotions like ICW on WWE Network and WCPW/Defiant since 2010. Further, Jamie also hosted the old Ministry Of Slam podcast, and has interviewed everyone from Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels to Bret Hart and Trish Stratus.