Sad news out of Memphis on Tuesday morning as absolutely legendary professional wrestling announcer Lance Russell has died at 91. Is it possible to think someone who’s 91 years old died too soon?
If you talk to anyone who’s ever announced in any capacity in pro wrestling and is worth their salt, they’ve been influenced by Russell’s work. He was sort of the Vin Scully of wrestling, calling the action in one form or another from 1959 to 1997. You may have seen his work in NWA Mid-America, the Continental Wrestling Association, WCW and in basically any notable non-WWE Jerry Lawler clip.
On October 1, Russell’s son had asked for thoughts and prayers, as Russell was “really struggling” with a variety of health problems. The news was broken on the legend’s Twitter.
Hey All, wanted to share the sad news that dad passed away this morning. You all have been a blessing in this difficult time. Thank You!!!
— Lance Russell (@MemphisLance) October 3, 2017
It didn’t take long for an outpouring of love and condolences from the wrestling community, including many of Russell’s peers and the people he influenced most.
My dear friend and greatest wrestling commentator ever, Lance Russell passed away this morning. I would have never been without him. R.I.P. pic.twitter.com/bD4AlK5dsF
— Jerry Lawler (@JerryLawler) October 3, 2017
There are people far more qualified than I to pay tribute to @MemphisLance, but I must pay my respects. RIP #LanceRussell pic.twitter.com/gTKeYmA3Cz
— Paul Heyman (@HeymanHustle) October 3, 2017
If there can be any positive from this, it’s that maybe someone on the Internet who isn’t familiar with Lance Russell will watch a bunch of his work today and fall in love, and that maybe WWE will finally put the man into the Hall of Fame. Rest in peace, banana nose.
