Wrestling Legend Bruno Sammartino: My Jewish Friend Inspired My Career

We are sad to report that WWE Hall Of Famer and former WWWF World Heavyweight Champion Bruno Sammartino has passed away at the age of 82.

Sammartino held the WWE world title for eight years in the 1960's and 70's.

Born in Abruzzi, Italy, Sammartino emigrated to the United States in 1950 after surviving the German occupation of his country in World War II. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2013.

- Ted DiBiase (@MDMTedDiBiase) April 18, 2018Growing up, my grandfather Stu Hart would ALWAYS talk about Bruno Sammartino and what an incredible wrestler he was.

Sammartino quickly became a fan favorite after defeating Buddy Rogers in 43 seconds at Madison Square Garden in 1963 to become the second-ever WWE champion.

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Fellow WWE stars and other celebrities paid tribute to Sammartino as news of his death emerged Wednesday.

Triple H called Sammartino a "true icon" and said he was devastated by the news. He leaves behind a wife, Carol, who he was married to for almost 60 years, and three children.

"A true friend [.] and one of the toughest people I've ever met".

In 1959, Sammartino made his professional debut before quickly establishing himself as one of wrestling's most popular figures. Bruno's brother and sister both passed away at young ages, and Adolf Hitler's Nazi forces seized their town, but Bruno persevered. We'd say "rest in power" to Bruno, but we're sure that's the only way he knows how to do it.

RIP Bruno, and may his family be comforted.