One of the legends from an iconic pro wrestling family, Dory Funk Jr., died at the age of 85 on Tuesday.
The Funks -- Dory Sr., Dory Jr., and Terry -- were the core of professional wrestling for decades in the era where territories dominated. Dory Jr. started wrestling in 1963. In 1969, he defeated Gene Kiniski to become NWA World Champion.
He held the title for 4 1/2 years.
Dory Funk Jr. was an international superstar, spending a lot of time working in All Japan Wrestling from 1973-87. He wrestled sporadically in AJP later in life.
He actually wrestled as late as Aug. 24, 2024. His last match came at the age of 83. Per Wokipedia: It was considered a Double Hell Current Explosion Death. He teamed with Osamu Nishimura, defeating the team of Atsushi
Onita & Raijin Yaguchi.
Tributes came in on social media:
The CAC mourns the passing of one of professional wrestling’s true legends, Dory Funk Jr.
— Cauliflower Alley Club (@CACReunion) August 4, 2026
A champion, a teacher, a gentleman, and an ambassador for our great sport, Dory Funk Jr. leaves behind a legacy that will forever be remembered by wrestlers and fans around the world. pic.twitter.com/8ryT4Wn70b
RIP to one of the greatest every to lace up the boots, @fuanku This is from the Sept. 18, 1970, final showdown between Wahoo McDaniel and NWA champion Dory Funk Jr. at the Sam Houston Coliseum. It is one of my favorites. pic.twitter.com/zoX0xIEKZR
— Greg Klein (@JYDbook) August 4, 2026
Fifty-seven years ago today on this date: Dory Funk Jr. defeated Buddy Colt in El Paso, Texas. pic.twitter.com/Vy3bFZuSZE
— Mike Mooneyham (@ByMikeMooneyham) August 4, 2026
Thank you Dory for the time you spent with me. Rest well my friend. pic.twitter.com/MmlpHkpcRS
— Jake “The Snake” Roberts (@JakeSnakeDDT) August 4, 2026
I'm honored to have known & shared a ring with the legendary Dory Funk, Jr. Rest in Peace, sir.🙏 pic.twitter.com/RCZSFmX1BH
— Sean Waltman (@TheRealXPac) August 4, 2026
I am deeply saddened to hear the Dory Funk Jr. has passed away.
I was very close to him, his brother Terry and his whole family. My family and the Funk family were very close. It saddens me to know that the last of a dying breed has passed away.
May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/m2uLdYA9Cy— Ted DiBiase (@MDMTedDiBiase) August 4, 2026
The entire CCW family is saddened to learn of the passing of wrestling legend and a true pioneer of the business, Dory Funk Jr.
— Coastal Championship Wrestling (@CCWAliveTV) August 4, 2026
His contributions to professional wrestling helped shape generations of performers, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who step into the… pic.twitter.com/HkaLosgFhX
I’m very saddened to hear of my friend Dory Funk Jr’s passing. From when I arrived in the US we met and he took the time to encourage and teach me. My deepest condolences to Marty and all the Funk family. Rest well.x pic.twitter.com/9jN7kp7AnT
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) August 4, 2026
Dory Funk Jr. was such a fantastic world champion for his time. I'd call him for that 1969-73 time period the perfect champion, always a great match, always made the opponent, no matter the skill level, look like someone who could win the world title. He became a legend in…
— Dave Meltzer (@davemeltzerWON) August 4, 2026
Dory Funk Jr. and his younger brother Terry Funk walking the streets of Japan. Two brothers who would become legends on both sides of the Pacific (and everywhere in between).
— Pro Wrestling Stories (@pws_official) August 4, 2026
Hard to believe the Funk brothers are both now gone.
Rest in peace, Dory. Together again with Terry. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/0JmnC7HWNb
This article originally appeared on The List Wire: Pro wrestling legend Dory Funk Jr. dies at 85
