We are saddened to report that WWE Hall of Famer Mae Young has passed away, according to WWE.com.
Young was the oldest living professional wrestler in the world and is the only person in history to have documented matches in nine different decades. Her first match was in 1939 and her latest match was in 2010.
Vince McMahon has issued the following statement regarding her passing:
“There will never be another Mae Young. Her longevity in sports entertainment may never be matched, and I will forever be grateful for all of her contributions to the industry. On behalf of WWE, I extend our sincerest condolences to her family and friends. “
WWE released the following video:
Here are some tweets from the wrestling world regarding Mae Young’s passing:
#RIPTheOneandOnlyGreatMaeYoung A true pioneer and legend has passed tonight. Long live the memory of my friend and @WWE Hall of Famer.
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) January 15, 2014
She's a wrestling pioneer. I truly had deep affection & respect for "Aunty Mae" Young. RIP. #IMissUMae pic.twitter.com/r9oG9rLw9Z
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) January 15, 2014
Johnnie Mae as I knew her was part of my wrestling family. She will be missed as much a anyone I've ever known! pic.twitter.com/4o8riZYkBk
— TheMarkHenry (@TheMarkHenry) January 15, 2014
RIP Mae Young. She was an absolute pleasure to have known, and truly was one of a kind. My sincere condolences go out to her family/friends.
— Howard Finkel (@howardfinkel) January 15, 2014
RIP Mae Young! What a tough incredible woman. Enjoyed being her friend and knowing one of original divas. She's now reunited with Moolah.
— John Layfield (@JCLayfield) January 15, 2014
Very sorry to hear of the passing of Mae Young.A truly tough and lovely lady.
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) January 15, 2014