A true wrestling great and a man who headlined the 1st ever WrestleMania has passed away. “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff’s passing was announced today by his son, Travis. He was 71-years-old.
Travis Orndorff wrote on Instagram, “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my father, Paul Parlette Orndorff Jr. He is better known as ‘Mr. #1derful‘ Paul Orndorff. Most of you will remember him for his physique. Many will remember his intensity. But if I could only get you to understand and see his heart. He will always be Pop, Paw Paw, and Daddy at home. And as much as many of you hated him as a wrestler, he absolutely loved you for it. He was an amazing father that showed me more love than I ever deserved. I love you Daddy.”
SEScoops wishes our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Paul Orndorff. Rest in peace.
Paul Orndorff Remembered
Orndorff was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in the Class of 2005. He was inducted into the Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame in Wichita Falls, Texas in 2009.
In 1986, his feud with Hulk Hogan was voted “Feud of the Year” by both Pro Wrestling Illustrated and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
Tributes to Paul Orndorff have been pouring in online: