The wrestling world reacted to the death of Dory Funk Jr., with many wrestling stars and legends posting tributes to one of the most popular performers ever.

“WWE is saddened to learn that Dory Funk Jr., a WWE Hall of Famer and influential wrestling trainer, has passed away,” WWE wrote on social media. The company honored him with a tribute video and also a post on the official website.

“AEW and the wrestling world mourn the passing of the legendary Dory Funk Jr. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and fans during this difficult time,” said AEW in a post on X.

The NWA, where Dory was champion, said that it is saddened to hear about his death.

“The National Wrestling Alliance sends its most heartfelt wishes to the family, friends and fans of Dory Funk Jr., a true legend whose contributions to professional wrestling are still felt and celebrated to this day,” a statement read.

Dory also worked with TNA in its early days and the promotion paid tribute to him with a post on social media.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the legendary Dory Funk Jr., who was involved with many of TNA’s early events including our very first event in 2002. We offer our sincere condolences to his fans, friends, and family,” TNA wrote.

The Cauliflower Alley Club called Dory a champion, a teacher, a gentleman, and an ambassador for the great sport.

“Dory Funk Jr. leaves behind a legacy that will forever be remembered by wrestlers and fans around the world,” CAC said on X.

Others who knew Dory throughout the years took to social media to honor him.

Triple H: “From the Double Cross Ranch to the @WWE Hall of Fame, Dory’s style inspired countless performers in our industry. Whether it was at WrestleMania 2, WCW, ECW, or the dozens of NWA-affiliated promotions, his travels across North America and Asia were a part of the early blueprint that helped build this business into a global phenomena. A hard-nosed and fierce competitor, his rugged in-ring style was only eclipsed by the decades he spent training athletes to perform in the squared circle he loved so much. My thoughts and those of the entire @WWE Universe are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”

Ric Flair: “I’m more than sorry to hear about the passing of the great and i do mean great Dory Funk Jr.! If you didn’t have the opportunity to wrestle a Funk, whether it be Dory or Terry, you missed the opportunity of a lifetime. The word wrestling and Funk are synonymous. There are not enough Mount Rushmores to accommodate everybody, but I’m sure that anyone who wrestled either one of them would agree that they’re on someone’s Mount Rushmore. So many thoughts on my mind right now as I’m coming home from a WrestleCon. I know we are all getting older, and i would emphasize to everyone, because you can’t buy time, to live every moment of your life to the fullest. Rest in peace my great friend Dory Funk Jr.! What a great ride you had!

Tully Blanchard: “God bless Dory Funk Jr. A great performer, a great man, and an indelible legacy.”

Nick Aldis: “Today we lost a true legend. A professional wrestler who dedicated his life to our business until his final day. A real world’s champion. Last of his kind. God Bless Dory Funk Jr. My condolences to Marti and his loved ones. Rest in Peace.”

Ted DiBiase: “I am deeply saddened to hear the Dory Funk Jr. has passed away. I was very close to him, his brother Terry and his whole family. My family and the Funk family were very close. It saddens me to know that the last of a dying breed has passed away. May he rest in peace.”

Matt Hardy: “Very sad to hear about the passing of Dory Funk, as he was such a big part of our beginnings in WWE. Learned invaluable lesson from him when he was heading up the WWE Dojo system back in 1998. Dory was a very patient & passionate teacher & an even kinder human being. Rest In Power, my friend. My thoughts & prayers go out to all his family & friends.”

Kurt Angle: “Dory Funk Jr. was a legend in many ways as a wrestler, a coach, and an incredible human being. I vividly remember the first time I had the privilege of meeting him at the “Dory Funkin Dojo” during a WWE tryout and training camp aimed at preparing young wrestlers for future performances on TV. Dory taught me the basics of pro wrestling, and there was no one better than him. He quickly took a liking to me and decided to be my coach and manager for my very first matches. His genius in our sport was unmatched, and his unique style and vast knowledge set him apart from others. Being “old school” was something I loved about him, but he also knew how to adapt to the evolving landscape of wrestling. Dory prepared me for my first matches in just five days, keeping things simple and basic so I could understand my movements in the ring. There will never be another like him. You will be sorely missed, Dory. Rest in peace, my friend.”

Shawn Michaels: “Dory Funk Jr. was one of the toughest, most respected men this business has ever known. His impact on professional wrestling will be felt for generations. Rest in peace Dory. My thoughts are with the Funk family.”

John Layfield: “One of the reasons I got into the business, RIP great Texas legend Dory Funk Jr.”

Nattie: “On behalf of the Hart family, we are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dory Funk. My grandfather Stu said Dory was his favorite champion he ever had in Stampede Wrestling. “Dory was everything you could ask for in a professional wrestler.” Dory defined the word CLASSIC. He was a genuine draw, made everyone he stepped into the ring with look like a million bucks and he was always respected for how easy he was to do business with. Those qualities are what made him one of the true greats. The Funk family has meant so much to professional wrestling and Dory’s contributions helped shape this business for generations to come. We are grateful for the respect and friendship shared between the Funks and the Harts over the years. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with the entire Funk family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Dory. Your legacy will live on FOREVER.”

Bruce Prichard: “R.I.P. Dory Funk Jr. Greatest NWA World Champion. Great friend and mentor. Thank you for your generosity and kindness always. Today is a sad day.”

Big E: “Was an honor to get to spend some time being trained by Dory Funk in FCW more than 15 years ago. I’ll always fondly remember his kindness and patience. Condolences to his loved ones.”

Adam Pearce: “Godspeed, Dory Funk, Jr. I didn’t get to spend as much time with you as some of my peers, but I tremendously appreciate the moments we shared. NXT Live Events in Ocala talking about the old NWA; chewing the fat about the industry. Your legacy and contributions are without question, and will endure. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and all affected. Rest well, sir.”

William Regal: “I’m very saddened to hear of my friend Dory Funk Jr’s passing. From when I arrived in the US we met and he took the time to encourage and teach me. My deepest condolences to Marty and all the Funk family. Rest well.”

Sgt. Slaughter: “Truly sorry to hear Dory Funk Jr. passed. Incredible performer & storyteller in the squared circle. A wonderful teacher of our business, but above all, a beautiful person. Thank you dory, for leading by example. I was blessed to know you. R. I. P. my friend.”

Brian Blair: “It’s hard to find the right words to say goodbye to a man who became a mentor, a leader, and a dear friend, Dory Funk Jr. My love for him started all the way back as a kid at the Bayfront Center, booing him as the ultimate heel while he took on my hero Jack Brisco. He was an absolute legend who commanded respect just by being himself. My heart goes out to his wife, Marti, and his family. You will be deeply missed, Dory. I know God is welcoming you with open arms. Rest easy until we meet again.”

Michael Hayes: “All you have to say is…..He was Dory Funk Jr. End of conversation. Nothing left to say after that!! Proud to know him and call him friend. Condolences and Prayers to Marti, family, friends and fans.”

Jim Duggan: “ust learned of the passing of the legendary Dory Funk Jr. An icon in the industry and a great human being. Rest in peace!”

Brutus Beefcake: “Rest in peace Dory Funk Jr. God Rest your Soul.”