2020 has taken another one. We’ve lost many over the last few months, and now Pat Patterson joins that list.
The longtime WWE employee was let go earlier this year at 79 years old, and despite his age many expected him to return to his post before long. Life had other plans, as Patterson has passed away due to complications from cancer. He didn’t make his diagnosis public, choosing to keep his fight private, and was likely the reason for his release back in September.
When it comes to legends in this industry, especially in WWE, Patterson deserves to be held up near the top for a few key reasons. He was more than just one of Vince McMahon’s stooges, despite what a certain generation of fans might believe.
Pat Patterson Left His Mark On Professional Wrestling
Firstly, he was the first ever WWF Intercontinental Champion, winning the championship after merging the WWF North American Championship with the totally legit South American Championship in 1979. This belt is still defended to this day, with the latest champion being Sami Zayn.
Next, he invented one of the best matches in professional wrestling history when he pitched the idea for The Royal Rumble. It’s a simple spin on the traditional Battle Royale formula, but one that has resonated with fans for decades and remains one of WWE’s most popular matches.
Finally, he was one of the first openly LGBT+ performers in professional wrestling history. He came out as gay in 1970, when it was not nearly as socially acceptable to do so. It was not mentioned on WWE programming until Legends House in 2014. Patterson was married for 40 years before his husband passed away in 1998 from a heart attack.
This isn’t even getting into his classic matches with the likes of Sgt. Slaughter, who he met in a brutal Boot Camp match in 1982, considered by many to be the best match of that year.
Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Pat Patterson. He put a lot of good into this industry, and his impact will never be forgotten.
What are your favorite Pat Patterson moments? Will the 2021 Royal Rumble be dedicated to Patterson? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
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