The wrestling community faces yet another somber day as it grapples with the loss of an icon. Even as the wounds from the recent departures of WWE legends Terry Funk and Bray Wyatt remain fresh, devastating news has struck the hearts of the WWE Universe. On September 6, 2023, former WWF announcer Ken Resnick conveyed the heartbreaking news that Adnan Al-Kaissie, a WWE legend, had passed away at the age of 84. The exact cause of his death remains unknown.
Remembering Adnan Al-Kaissie: A Pro-Iraqi Gimmick and Triumph Over André the Giant
Adnan Al-Kaissie etched his name into the annals of wrestling history during the 1980s when he became a prominent figure in the WWF. He gained widespread recognition for his role in the Triangle of Terror, a faction that saw him align with Sgt. Slaughter as a manager and later with The Iron Sheik. Together, they engaged in a fierce feud against wrestling legends Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior, adopting a pro-Iraqi gimmick that added an extra layer of intrigue to their battles.
Yet, even before clashing with luminaries like ‘The Hulkster’ and The Ultimate Warrior, Al-Kaissie made his mark within the squared circle by facing none other than the legendary André the Giant. Notably, he achieved a feat that few in the wrestling world could boast: he defeated André the Giant.
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A Remarkable Feat: Al-Kaissie’s Triumph Over André the Giant
André the Giant was an unparalleled titan in the wrestling industry. Conquering the 7’4″ behemoth of humanity was a daunting endeavor. Thus, when WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan achieved a monumental victory against André the Giant at WrestleMania III in 1987, it sent shockwaves throughout the WWE Universe. What many may not know is that Adnan Al-Kaissie had already accomplished what Hogan achieved in 1987—16 years prior.
In 1971, at Al-Shaab Stadium in Baghdad, Iraq, Al-Kaissie achieved a historic victory over André the Giant. He stands as one of the very first wrestlers to conquer “the Eighth Wonder of the World,” as André was fondly referred to in the wrestling fraternity.
Emotions Overflow as Wrestling Community Bids Farewell
The passing of Adnan Al-Kaissie has plunged the wrestling community into a well of sorrow and despair. Fans and fellow wrestlers alike have expressed their profound grief at losing such a legendary figure.
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On social media platforms, fans gathered to pay their heartfelt tributes to the departed WWE legend. The wrestling world collectively mourns the loss of a true icon and the memories he created.
🕊️ Fly high comrade!
— Nino Steel Man (@Kevin_L_Vazquez) September 7, 2023
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RIP great General Adnan. International conflict be damned, one thing they always agreed upon almost unanimously was their disdain for Hulk Hogan 🙏
— Technibility📱 (@Technibility) September 7, 2023
An opposing figure as a manager/wrestler. Lost the Iron Shiek earlier this year. RIP General Adnan. 😭🙏
— RD2FutuREndeavRD (@bnw852) September 7, 2023
This year has proven to be a dark period for the wrestling fraternity, as it has bid farewell to several legends. The list of departed luminaries includes Bray Wyatt, Terry Funk, Iron Sheik, Superstar Billy Graham, Bushwhacker Butch, and Jerry Jarrett, all of whom left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling.
Ah, damn, another legend gone, what the heck
— m/DrXtremem/ (@DrXtreme80) September 7, 2023
These mournful graphics have become all too common of late. 💔
Rest in peace.
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) September 7, 2023