Jim Crocket Jr dead aged 76: WWE, AEW and more mourn wrestling legend

Wrestling icon Jim Crocket Jr. has died aged 76.

The whole industry has been rocked by the death of the legendary promoter, and the likes of WWE, AEW and many top stars in the business are mourning a sad loss.

In a statement, WWE said: ‘WWE is saddened to learn that Jim Crockett Jr. passed away at the age of 76.

‘An influential promoter who helped champion the careers of WWE Hall of Famers such as Ric Flair, Ricky Steamboat and The Road Warriors, Crockett Jr. stewarded the family’s Crockett Promotions from 1977 to 1989.

‘As part of the promotion’s affiliation, Crockett Jr. was later named President of the National Wrestling Alliance in 1980.

‘During his tenure, Crockett Jr. helped expand the promotion’s footprint and held the inaugural Jim Crockett Sr. Memorial Cup at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans.

‘Under Crockett Jr.’s leadership, the NWA would eventually be sold and renamed as World Championship Wrestling.

‘WWE extends its condolences to Crockett Jr.’s family and friends.’

AEW added: ‘AEW and the wrestling world mourn the passing of the legendary Mid-Atlantic Wrestling and NWA promoter Jim Crockett, Jr. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans.’

And IMPACT Wrestling commented: ‘We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary wrestling promoter Jim Crockett Jr. We send our sincerest condolences to his family.’

Former WWE star Lance Storm credited Crocket Jr. with finding his love for pro wrestling.

He tweeted: ‘If not for my love of Jim Crocket promotions I doubt I ever would have considered a pro wrestling career. Thank you Jim Crocket jr. May you Rest In Peace. (sic)’

And Jim ‘JR’ Ross wrote: ‘Thanks, Jimmy and rest in perfect health. You and your family were always very fair to me. I’m grateful.’

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