The vehicle, driven by Savage, whose real name was Randy Poffo, crashed head-on into a tree when he veered across a concrete median, according to police reports.His brother, former pro wrestler Lanny Poffo, said that Savage (58), suffered a heart attack while driving and lost control of his 2009 Jeep Wrangler around 9:25 am. Savage was transported to Largo Medical Centre where he died from his injuries.
Savage’s second wife, Lynn (56), was a passenger and suffered minor injuries. Both were wearing seat belts.
Reports confirmed that Savage suffered a “medical event.” Doctors are scheduled to perform an autopsy today.
Savage, along with Hulk Hogan, was one of the major catalysts in the mainstream popularity of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) during the mid-80s, transforming the industry into a pop-culture touchstone.
Savage, known for his raspy voice, sunglasses, bandannas and colourful outfits, made the catch phrase “Ooooh yeahhh” part of pro wrestling vernacular, and wrestling fame enabled him to become the national face for Slim Jim. He also appeared in 2002’s “Spiderman” and released a rap album in 2003.
His marriage to the late “Miss Elizabeth” (Liz Hulette) was a major part of WWF storylines.
Hulette, a former Miss Kentucky, met Savage during the late 70s while both were working for the Lexington, Ky.-based International Championship Wrestling promotion run by Savage’s father, Angelo Poffo. The two joined the WWF in 1985 and became one of the company’s most successful acts.— Daily Mail
