TIME wrestling

Wrestling Legend ‘Rowdy’ Roddy Piper Dies at 61

He was known for his battles with Hulk Hogan

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The wrestling entertainment legend known as “Rowdy” Roddy Piper has died at his Hollywood, California, home, law enforcement officials said Thursday. He was 61.

The cause of death appears to be natural, officials said. Piper’s agent, Jay Schacter, confirmed the death to Variety, and told the publication Piper died in his sleep Wednesday night.

Piper, whose real name is Roderick George Toombs, joined World Wrestling Entertainment in 1984; before that he wrestled in the NWA.

After joining the WWE became a star and was known for his battles with Hulk Hogan, according to the entertainment company.

Piper grappled with Hogan…

Read the rest of the story from our partners at NBC News

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