The Iron Sheik, a former WWE heavyweight champion and WWE Hall-of-Famer, passed away at 81, which was revealed in a statement from his team. 

“Today, we gather with heavy hearts to bid farewell to a true legend, a force of nature, and an iconic figure who left an incredible mark on the world of professional wrestling. It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of The Iron Sheik, but we also take solace in knowing that he departed this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations to come.”

Sheik, who was born in 1942 in Iran, is survived by his wife of 47 years, Caryl, and his three children.