WWE Legend Joe Laurinaitis, Also Known as 'Road Warrior Animal' Passes Away at 60

WWE Legend Joe Laurinaitis, popularly known as the "Road Warrior Animal," is dead. Laurinaitis passed on at the age of 60, as announced by his family on social media.

The world of wrestling was thrown into mourning after the family of Joe Laurinaitis, aka "Road Warrior Animal," announced his passing on September 23 via his official Twitter page.

In the statement released, the family revealed that the combat legend died at the age of 60 , before suuring fans that they would release an official statement later in the day to shed light on the unfortunate circumstance.

Fans were overwhelmed with nostalgia as they remembered how much of an entertainer Laurinitis was. Many followers shared their condolences while wishing his loved ones well.

"Road Warrior Animal" was one of the most iconic stars whose tag team was dubbed the most successful in the wrestling history.

Back in the day, the WWE champion formed one of the best tag teams with fellow star and pal, Michael Hegstrand, known as Road Warrior Hawk. The duo, whose tag-team was called "Legion of Doom," got inducted into WWE's Hall of Fame in 2011.

Laurinaitis started his career as an individual wrestler before forming the "Legion of Doom" with the now late Hegstrand in 1983. The duo became combat icons in Georgia Championship Wrestling before moving to the Word Championship Wrestling (WCW) level.

Following the sad announcement of his passing, many WWE stars took to social media to pay their condolences and heartfelt wishes for his family. Renowned wrestler Hulk Hogan referred to the late Laurinitis as his brother, and put up prayers for the star's family.

Fellow star Jerry Lawler wrote on Twitter that it was "terrible news to wake up to" as he mentioned that he was praying for Laurinaitis' wife and kids.

According to WWE, "Road Warrior Animal" was one of the most iconic stars whose tag team was dubbed the most successful in wrestling history.

Following Hegstrand's death in 2003, Laurinitis copped more WWE titles with a second partner, Heidenreich. He inspired his siblings, John (Johnny Ace) and Marcus (The Terminator), to become successful wrestling stars.

The late entertainer is survived by his wife, Julie and their three children. One of his kids, James Laurinaitis, is an NFL alum. James played as a linebacker for the St. Louis Rams and New Orleans Saints for eight seasons.