Wrestling legend Tracy Smothers has died aged 58.
The ECW and WCW alumnus – who also worked for the likes of WWE (then WWF), TNA Wrestling and Smoky Mountain Wrestling – throughout his illustrious career – has been honoured by fans and fellow pros alike after news of his sad death.
Tracy had been battling cancer since November 2019, and was hospitalised earlier this month, while he was also dealing with heart issues and awaiting surgery for a hernia.
Ricky Morton tweeted: ‘My great friend Tracy Smothers has passed, it is with a heavy heart that I share the news.
‘Lots of great times with Tracy, I had just spoke with him last week RIP my friend.
‘Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of Tracy’s family and loved ones at this time. Ricky Morton (sic)’
During his time with ECW, Smothers was part of the Full Blooded Italians (FBI) alongside the likes of Little Guido and “The Big Don” Tommy Rich.
In WCW, he teamed with Steve Armstrong, while their tenure with the promotion saw them embroiled in a long feud with The Fabulous Freebirds.
The duo held tag team gold in various promotions, including WCW, Continental Wrestling Federation, Ohio Valley Wrestling, and Championship Wrestling from Florida.
He also spent a few years with then-WWF as Freddie Joe Floyd, who was mainly used to make other wrestlers look strong.
The wrestling world has paid tribute to Smothers, with former ECW star Taz amongst those offering kind words on social media.
He tweeted: ‘Very sad to learn that Tracy Smothers passed. He was a great wrestler and an even better person.
‘He was always cutting up and busting chops in the locker room… just a fun talented dude always smiling. A spectacular career wrestling everywhere you could imagine over his years!’
Raw superstar Ricochet wrote: ‘I just heard the news about Tracy Smothers.
‘In my early years as a wrestler myself and @SexyChuckieT got to spend a lot of time with Tracy. He always knew how to put a smile on peoples faces.’
Legendary commentator Jim “JR” Ross added: ‘RIP Tracy Smothers….a legit man’s man who just passed and with courage and dignity.’
