WWE Issues Statement On The Passing Of Ox Baker

Oct 20, 2014

ORIGINAL: WWE posted the following statement, regarding the passing of Ox Baker…

WWE is saddened to learn that Ox Baker, a feared villain of the ring for more than three decades, passed away Monday morning at age 80. A 6-foot-5 behemoth from Waterloo, Iowa, Baker originally competed in WWWF in the late 1960s and became one of the most intimidating forces known inside the squared circle — both due to his unique look and devastating heart punch. Over the span of an impressive career, the big man traded blows with the likes of WWE Hall of Famers Hulk Hogan, Dusty Rhodes and Harley Race.

Outside the ring, Baker also put the hurt on actor Kurt Russell as the brute played an appropriately savage warrior in the post-apocalyptic world of John Carpenter’s 1981 sci-fi classic, “Escape from New York.”

WWE extends its condolences to Baker’s colleagues, friends and family.

ORIGINAL: According to TMZ, Ox Baker has passed away. He was 80. Baker started wrestling in the early 60s, working the WWWF, Stampede Wrestling, The AWA and many other territories. Baker and his heart punch gained fame following a tag team match involving Alberto Torres. Torres was injured during the match and died three days later. Evidence indicated that Torres died of a ruptured appendix, but Baker’s heart punch was blamed and from there, the legendary status of Baker’s heart punch started to grow.

Baker also got into acting, appearing in Escape from New York, The Big Brawl and Blood Circus. He also made an appearance on The Price is Right. On behalf of everyone here on the websitr, I would like to extend our condolences to the family, friends and fans of Mr. Baker.