Within minutes of the news that Piper has passed away, several wrestling legends and current Superstars and Divas started writing tributes to the Hall of Famer on Twitter and Instagram.
“One of the true greats of all time. My heart goes out to his family and the fans he entertained over the years. RIP Rowdy,” wrote John Cena.
“Just heard my friend and a huge influence on me Hot Rod – Roddy Piper has passed away. Rest well friend, you will be missed. #lifeWellLived,” wrote JBL.
“Grew up a fan (still have my Hot Rod shirt), became a colleague, and most importantly, became a friend. Bagpipes are playing #RIPHotRod,” said fellow Hall of Famer Adam “Edge” Copeland.
Jim Ross, who tonight is inducting Jim Crockett into the NWA Legends Hall of Heroes wrote that he will be doing the honors tonight with a heavy heart. “#RIPRoddyPiper my friend. Thoughts w/ his family.”
Another man who spent years working with Piper, The Iron Sheik, sent his message in all caps typical Sheik style. “RODDY PIPER. I LOVE YOU FOREVER. GOD BLESS YOU BUBBA.”
WWE Divas Summer Rae and Lilian Garcia also shared their thoughts. “A legend gone. It was an honor to have met him after years of watching him. My prayers go out to his family & loved ones,” wrote Summer, while Garcia said, “Feel so sad hearing Rowdy Roddy Piper has passed away. Always brought a smile 2 my face when I saw him.”
Goldberg, who worked with Piper in WCW said that Piper was one of the guys and he was going to miss him.
Virgil, who worked with Piper during their feud against the Million Dollar Man, wrote, “My main man. Always had my back. RIP #RoddyPiper.”
Chris Jericho posted a photo of Piper and himself on Instagram and called him a WrestleMania rival. “One of the greatest who ever lived, but more importantly a legit sweet family man with a good heart. God bless you Rod….See you on the other side.”
El Rey Network, which broadcasts Lucha Underground, tweeted, “RIP Roddy Piper. An ass kicker to the end,” while Dana White, the President at UFC added, “Sad day. RIP Rowdy Roddy Piper.”
Meanwhile, Colt Toombs, the son of Piper and an aspiring wrestler, also wrote a message regarding his father on Twitter. “My father @R_Roddy_Piper was a great man and my best friend I will miss him forever and will alway try to be the man he raised me to be.”
