Legendary fighter Blackjack Throws – who was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006 – died at age 86 … Vince McMahon announced Wednesday.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Jack Lanza,” the famous WWE leader said in a statement on his social media page. “He was a man of men, respected and loved by all.”
The cause of death has not been revealed.
Lanza began his wrestling career in the early 1960s and gained fame after he formed a team partnership with Blackjack Mulligan.
The two, who went by the nickname “The Blackjacks,” became one of the most legendary duos in wrestling history … eventually starring in McMahon’s World Wide Wrestling Federation in the 1970s.
Lanza eventually retired from wrestling in the 1980s … but continued to work with McMahon and the WWE for years.
“His loyalty and dedication will never be forgotten,” said McMahon.
Legendary Jack Lanza … One of the brightest minds in the business, thank you for letting me sit under the learning tree … pic.twitter.com/PpK6AHsC2j
– Triple H (@TripleH) October 24, 2016
@Triple H
Lanza made a huge impact on today’s biggest wrestling stars … with Triple H Calling Lanza a legend after the two reunited in 2016.
“One of the brightest minds in the business,” Triple H said at the time, “thank you for letting me sit under the learning tree.”
He added Wednesday: “Certain talents will seek advice from certain agents, but they ALL sought out Lanza.”
“The sweetest man but incredibly tough and 100% dedicated to making us better. Often, Jack didn’t tell you what you wanted to hear, but he ALWAYS told you what you needed. I will miss you so much, my friend.
BREAK