Wrestling legend Dusty Rhodes passes away at 69

Legendary wrestler Dusty Rhodes has passed away, according to World Wrestling Entertainment. He was 69.

Born Virgil Runnels, "The American Dream" rose to prominence as a main event wrestler in the National Wrestling Alliance in the '70s and '80s. A three-time NWA world champion, Rhodes made a name for himself with his explosive moves in the ring despite his heavyset frame as well as his charisma in his promos.

"Runnels became a hero to fans around the world thanks to his work ethic, his impassioned interviews and his indomitable spirit," said the WWE in a statement.

Recently, Rhodes worked with the acclaimed NXT territory of the WWE, working with younger wrestlers to improve their microphone and television presence.

He is the father of wrestlers Dustin Runnels (Goldust) and Cody Runnels (Cody Rhodes/Goldust).

With news of his passing, mourning quickly poured on social media from the top names in the industry.

A sad day for WWE. One of the most innovative, charismatic Superstars of all time, Dusty Rhodes, passed away. We loved him. #ThankYouDream

— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) June 11, 2015

Saddened to hear the passing of Dusty Rhodes. Legend, teacher, mentor, friend...Love you Dream #BookinAintEasyKid pic.twitter.com/ZxlGSgKB8J

— Triple H (@TripleH) June 11, 2015

#RIPDustyRhodes We never got to shoot our angle together! Thank you for everything, I Love You. #HallofFamer #Legend pic.twitter.com/rN2YeVNv5b

— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) June 11, 2015

My mentor @WWEDustyRhodes. Much love to your family and more respect than can ever be measured. Love you Dream. pic.twitter.com/bXgqs3qqca

— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) June 11, 2015

#RIPDustyRhodes THE most inspirational symbol in our industry. #SonOfAPlumber #AmericanDream #WWELegend

— John Cena (@JohnCena) June 11, 2015

I just heard that Dusty Rhodes has passed away...I'm stunned & heartbroken! I'm so sorry...prayers to Dustin, Cody & the rest of the family.

— Shawn Michaels (@ShawnMichaels) June 11, 2015

One of my all time heroes and one the all time greats has passed away. American Dream #DustyRhodes I will never forget you. #Legend

— Steve Austin (@steveaustinBSR) June 11, 2015

The world is a lot less bright today #RIPDream

— Adam (Edge) Copeland (@EdgeRatedR) June 11, 2015

Wow…. “There ain't no way I'm giving Brent Dibiase a standing ovation Dream!' “Just do it kid...” #RIPDustyRhodes https://t.co/vb3qtLHOME

— Chris Jericho (@IAmJericho) June 11, 2015

Just got out of the studio and found out about Dusty Rhodes. Incredibly sad. My sincerest condolences to his family.

— Daniel Bryan (@WWEDanielBryan) June 11, 2015

My children just called with the news that @WWEDustyRhodes had passed away. I'm crushed. He was a one-of-a-kind talent with an amazing mind.

— Mick Foley (@realmickfoley) June 11, 2015

Im saddened to hear one of my childhood heroes passed away today. Dusty Rhodes u will be missed #RIPAmericanDream

— The Miz (@mikethemiz) June 11, 2015

I was ever so fortunate to be a friend to this man, to learn from him as a performer and as a human being. #RIPDusty pic.twitter.com/GH0e1isGxw

— Seth Rollins (@WWERollins) June 11, 2015

There are no words that can express the sadness in our hearts. RIP Dusty Rhodes…You will be missed, Dream…We love you pic.twitter.com/45dPxrS3JB

— Kip Stern (@FightOwensFight) June 11, 2015