WWE commentator and interview “Mean” Gene Okerlund’s cause of death was the result of a fall he suffered in December, his son said.
The fall “triggered a rapid decline” in the elder Okerlund’s health, TMZ reported, citing his son. Just four days before his death, Okerlund was sent to a nursing home, the report said.
“He began to have trouble breathing and was rushed to a hospital on Wednesday where he ultimately passed away with his wife, Jeanne, by his side,” the website said.
Todd Okerlund said his family was touched by the outpouring of support following his death.
WWE chief Vince McMahon issued a statement following Okerlund’s passing.
Okerlund “first came to prominence as an interviewer in the American Wrestling Association,” said the WWE in a statement.

According to the WWE statement, “In 1984, Okerlund made the move to WWE where he became as recognizable as the Superstars he asked the tough questions to, including ‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage, The Ultimate Warrior and, perhaps Okerlund’s greatest guest, Hulk Hogan. Countless Hulkster interviews included the indelible phrase, ‘Well you know something ’Mean‘ Gene!’”
“Okerlund returned to WWE in 2001 to call the Gimmick Battle Royal at WrestleMania 17 along with Bobby ‘The Brain’ Heenan and continued to appear on WWE television programming, including as a cast member on WWE Network’s Legends’ House. WWE extends its condolences to Okerlund’s family, friends and fans,” the statement said.
Other wrestlers and some people associated with the WWE offered their condolences to his family.
Charles Robinson, a WWE referee, wrote: “So sad to hear of the passing of one of the greatest voices in wrestling. Mean Gene you will be missed and we will continue to love you. What a true class act. I am very fortunate to work with you.”
Bully Ray said, “RIP ‘Mean’ Gene. Thanks for the memories and being a Gentleman. God Bless.”
Added Big E: “Mean Gene was the voice of millions of childhoods. Mine certainly. An honor to meet him. Condolences to his family.”
“The voice of my youth. Condolences to his friends and family,” Mustafa Ali said.