Jerry Jarrett, the former wrestler, promoter and father of Jeff Jarrett, has passed away. He was 80 years old.

The cause of death was not released although he had been battling esophagus cancer.

Jarrett started his wrestling career in 1965 and worked primarily for the NWA. Years later he founded the Continental Wrestling Association and then the United States Wrestling Association. He spent many of his years promoting with his business partner and close friend Jerry Lawler, taking Memphis wrestling by storm.

Jarrett spent a few years working for both WCW and WWE as well following the end of his promoting career.

But perhaps younger fans will remember him more for co-founding TNA Wrestling through his new venture J Sports and Entertainment. The company was founded along with his son and WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett.

The NWA posted on Twitter, “The NWA family is saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary Jerry Jarrett. A very important part of the professional wrestling business, we send our condolences to his family, friends and fans.”

Jarrett was inducted into the NWA Hall of Fame in 2009.