Eldridge Wayne Coleman, better known as ‘Superstar’ Billy Graham, died at the age of 79, according to his family and WWE. It was revealed that he had been suffering from a number of health problems for years. Graham was on life support in the ICU in the hours leading up to his passing.
As a former WWE champion and pioneer of the sport, Graham captivated audiences for decades. Before embarking on his professional wrestling journey, Graham dabbled in football and bodybuilding. In the years to come, Graham would join his first pro wrestling organization in 1975 (WWE).
He won three world titles during his career and took part in different leagues including, WWF, AWA, NWA, and WWWF. In addition, he defeated WWE Hall of Famer Bruno Sammartino back in 1977. Graham was known for flashy outfits, dyed hair, and used catchphrases often throughout his tenure. He was later inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004 and is recognized as one of the most influential wrestlers of his generation.
In addition to his wrestling boots, Graham served as a commentator briefly after his last fight in 1979. After using an array of substances for years, Graham became an outspoken critic against the use of steroids.
WWE Issues Statement After Passing of ‘Superstar’ Billy Graham, Wrestling World Reacts
Below, you can find WWE’s official statement regarding Billy Graham’s death. It should be noted that Graham was placed on life support earlier this week and had dealt with various health issues like drug addiction, liver failure, and infections.
“WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer “Superstar” Billy Graham has passed away. We extend our condolences to Graham’s family, friends, and fans.” WWE shared via Twitter.
WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer “Superstar” Billy Graham has passed away. We extend our condolences to Graham’s family, friends, and fans.https://t.co/Qpykpjv616
— WWE (@WWE) May 18, 2023
It didn’t take long for the community to extend their best wishes and condolences.
“The Superstar Billy Graham Just Left Us THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR INFLUENCE On My Career!” Ric Flair wrote.
The Superstar Billy Graham Just Left Us 🙏🏻 THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR INFLUENCE On My Career! pic.twitter.com/YH0eT2NM4p
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) May 18, 2023
“Before Billy Graham, performers in WWWF / WWF/ WWE were known as professional wrestlers. After Billy Graham left his mark, Vincent Kennedy McMahon decided everyone would be a WWE Superstar. A most heartfelt RIP to the man of the hour, the man with the power, too sweet to be sour!” Paul Heyman shared.
Before Billy Graham, performers in WWWF / WWF/ WWE were known as professional wrestlers. After Billy Graham left his mark, Vincent Kennedy McMahon decided everyone would be a WWE Superstar. A most heartfelt RIP to the man of the hour, the man with the power, too sweet to be sour! pic.twitter.com/bwL6UQ3c3h
— Paul Heyman (@HeymanHustle) May 18, 2023
“This is the version of Superstar Billy Graham I got to see in FL. He would come out to Kung Fu Fighting & I loved it! RIP to the most copied man ever in Pro Wrestling.” Sean Waltman said.
This is the version of Superstar Billy Graham I got to see in FL. He would come out to Kung Fu Fighting & I loved it! RIP to the most copied man ever in Pro Wrestling. pic.twitter.com/hLzoWaXDiD
— Sean Waltman (@TheRealXPac) May 18, 2023
“SUPERSTAR BILLY GRAHAM. ONE OF MY FIRST TEACHERS OF THE HEAT. THE REAL LEGEND BUBBA. HE LOVE ME I LOVE HIM. TOGETHER WE HIT THE GYM AND SHOCK THE EARTH. I LOVE YOU FOREVER BROTHER. RIP” The Iron Sheik wrote.
SUPERSTAR BILLY GRAHAM. ONE OF MY FIRST TEACHERS OF THE HEAT. THE REAL LEGEND BUBBA. HE LOVE ME I LOVE HIM. TOGETHER WE HIT THE GYM AND SHOCK THE EARTH. I LOVE YOU FOREVER BROTHER. RIP pic.twitter.com/0UEIy2HNgt
— The Iron Sheik (@the_ironsheik) May 18, 2023
In one of the final updates before his death, details were shared about Graham’s health conditions on his GoFundMe page.
“It has now been four months since Wayne has not been home, he has either been at the rehab center, or in the hospital. Due to ongoing issues from his lack of appetite he has now lost 80 pounds and subsequently continues to struggle with extreme weakness,” the April 26 update read.
“The Osteomyelitis infection in his ears, skull and sinus cavity remains his greatest challenge. He’s on strong IV antibiotics 3 times a day to treat this and the infectious disease doctor says he will need to be on them for at least 3 more months. As a result of this infection, he is currently completely deaf. We’re praying this is temporary, and will resolve as the infection is treated. He has intermittently also suffered with kidney issues, and been on dialysis. This in addition to Billy having heart and lung concerns, sores from being in bed for 4 months and depression.”
Given his charismatic attitude and colorful personality, Graham had a hand in shaping many rising stars in the wrestling community. It’s evident he had a major impact on the sport and helped elevate WWE to the next level of mainstream.
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Fitness Volt sends its prayers and best wishes to ‘Superstar’ Billy Graham’s friends and family as they navigate through this difficult time.
Published: 18 May, 2023 | 1:24 PM EDT
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