WWE Hall of Famer The Iron Sheik Passes Away at 81
It is with heavy hearts that we report the passing of Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, better known as WWE Hall of Famer The Iron Sheik. He passed away at the age of 81. The Iron Sheik was known for his imposing physique, curled boots, and dreaded Camel Cutch finishing hold. He was considered to be one of the greatest villains in sports-entertainment history, but over time he earned the respect and love of the WWE Universe.
The Iron Sheik first excelled in the world of Greco-Roman Wrestling, becoming a gold medalist at 180.5 pounds in 1971. He became WWE Champion in 1983 after defeating Bob Backlund in Madison Square Garden. The victory was controversial, as Backlund’s manager Arnold Skaaland threw in the towel when Backlund refused to submit to the Camel Clutch.
After losing the WWE Championship to Hulk Hogan, The Iron Sheik engaged in a heated rivalry with Sgt. Slaughter, culminating in their famous Boot Camp Match at Madison Square Garden. He later teamed up with Russian strongman Nikolai Volkoff to form an anti-American pairing and win the WWE World Tag Team Championship in 1985 at the first WrestleMania.
The Iron Sheik left WWE in 1988 but reappeared in 1991 as Colonal Mustafa, alongside former enemy Sgt. Slaughter. His last in-ring appearance was at WrestleMania 17, where he returned for one night only and won a Gimmick Battle Royal, reigniting his rivalry with Slaughter.
The Iron Sheik’s larger-than-life personality and natural gift for inciting crowds across the globe helped him become a beloved figure. His showmanship earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike. He will be deeply missed by the wrestling community.
Rest in peace, Iron Sheik.