Former wrestling star Lanny Poffo died Thursday at the age of 68. His cause of death was not known at the time, according to his friend, “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan. Poffo was better known by his ring names “Leaping,” Lanny Poffo, and The Genius.
“With a very, very heavy heart, I’ve been asked to let everyone know about the passing of our friend and colleague Lanny Poffo, The Genius. RIP Lanny,” tweeted Hacksaw.
Who was Lanny Poffo?
Lanny Mark Poffo was a Canadian-American professional wrestler, motivational speaker, poet, and actor. He was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to Angelo Poffo, an Italian American Catholic, and Judy Poffo, a Jewish-American. He is also the real-life younger brother of “Macho Man” Randy Savage.
He made his debut in 1974, losing to Wayne Cowan in the opening match of an All-South Wrestling Alliance card. On May 29, 1976, Lanny received his first shot at the NWA World Heavyweight Title, losing a televised match to Terry Funk on NWA St Louis Wrestling at the Chase.
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