Gene Okerland, who we learned today (Jan. 2) died at age 76, was one of the most universally beloved figures in wrestling history. It’s not surprising that the memories and reflections from his co-workers and famous fans were too much for one post.
For a first batch of remembrances, click here.
I’m very sorry to hear that Gene has passed away. He was a good man and one of the greatest of all time. You will be missed my friend. pic.twitter.com/POLwK2bJ9b
— Sting (@Sting) January 2, 2019
#meangeneokerlund was the perfect representation of what a backstage interviewer should be like. His ability to entertain knew no bounds and as a human being, Gene was loved by all. He will be missed and there will never be another like him. #RIPMeanGene pic.twitter.com/zZMwF0P6rG
— Harley Race (@8XNWAChampion) January 2, 2019
The best partner I ever had. We never rehearsed or did anything scripted from a writer. Gene would ask me “hey big man what do u want to do?” I would always answer “just follow you brother” and it worked from 1980 - 2017. RIP my brother HH pic.twitter.com/OBtn6NxT1E
— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) January 3, 2019
I consider a good “pro-wrestler” somebody who can cover all the elements...from cameras to commentary. Gene Okerlund was a MASTER of knowing and executing everything he did so as to make the story clear for us. He put a voice to many of our childhoods. He will be sorely missed. pic.twitter.com/YmKr1bqyd8
— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) January 2, 2019
Gene Okerlund was always a consummate pro. His iconic voice, personality, and talent helped so many superstars climb to the top.
— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) January 2, 2019
I am deeply saddened by his passing. RIP Mean Gene.
Very sad day as I hear of the passing of another legend. Lots of fond memories with old Mean Gene and the Goldberg family ..... you will be missed my friend. @TheGeneOkerlund
— Bill Goldberg (@Goldberg) January 2, 2019
With heavy hearts we send our sincere condolences to the family of @WWE legend and hall of famer @TheGeneOkerlund You will be dearly missed. xo WGs pic.twitter.com/OBqfmby8eJ
— Dana Warrior (@DanaWarriorWWE) January 2, 2019
RIP “Mean” Gene. Thanks for the memories and being a Gentleman.
— Bully Ray (@bullyray5150) January 2, 2019
God Bless. pic.twitter.com/AJn3HsY7Am
Mean Gene Okerlund. Sorry for the auto correct of such a fine man. RIP.
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) January 2, 2019
Mean Gene was universally loved by everyone I’ve met that knew him.
— Soon. (@FightOwensFight) January 2, 2019
Very few people can say that their work will forever be appreciated and remembered. Very few can legitimately claim to be legends in their field.
Those things can undoubtedly be said about him. #RIPMeanGene
I’m sad today! I only worked with “Mean” Gene professionally once but I spent a lot of time personally with him. What a gentleman and a professional. The voice of a couple of “Eras” and definitely of a generation! God Speed and #RIPMeanGene
— Brian G. James (@WWERoadDogg) January 2, 2019
Very sad to hear of his passing. He was incredible at what he did. Watching him was how I learned that every single role is important. He taught me that if you don't care then they won't care. Thoughts go out to his family. https://t.co/HK68HfcPhE
— Austin Creeds finally going to MagFest (@XavierWoodsPhD) January 2, 2019
We will all miss Mean Gene. It’s a very sad thing to lose him. I feel blessed that we got to hang at #wrestlecade #legend #2019
— Rob Van Dam (@TherealRVD) January 2, 2019
I remember the first time I met Gene.
— Drake Maverick (@WWEMaverick) January 2, 2019
Gene: “Spud - I was walking around the offices of Titan Towers in Stamford CT. Do you know who was talking about you?”
Me: “OMG - Who Gene?”
Gene: “Absolutely f’n NOBODY!”
God bless you sir #RIPMeanGene
What an incredible man with a voice like no other. Thank you for the time you spent entertaining us all. A true legend. RIP Mean Gene✨ ✨ #ChildHoodMemories #Legend #RIPGeneOkerlund https://t.co/mhTrkHabCv
— Tamina Snuka (@TaminaSnuka) January 2, 2019
Mean Gene was one of my favorite people to be around. He was a man who loved the pro wrestling business and everything it had to offer. And treated everyone the same no matter who you were. He is a reminder to enjoy every step of whatever your journey is. #ripmeangene
— Jonathan Coachman (@TheCoachrules) January 2, 2019
Devastated today hearing of the passing of Mean Gene. Truly one of the greatest in our industry. Thankful that I ever got to meet him and shake his hand. #RIPGeneOkerlund
— Viktor (@ViktorRiseWWE) January 2, 2019
One of the most respected & never will be forgotten! Thank you for always being so kind when I would see you! Legends never die https://t.co/2A8p3xoeLj
— Dana Brooke WWE (@DanaBrookeWWE) January 2, 2019
#RIPMeanGene