WRESTLERS DECEASED

**In Memoriam: Bobby Duncum Sr. (1944–2026)**

The world of professional wrestling mourns the loss of **Bobby Duncum Sr.**, a beloved and formidable figure in the sport, who passed away on January 21, 2026, at the age of **81**.

Born in **Austin, Texas**, Duncum’s athletic career began long before he stepped into the squared circle. A standout student-athlete at **West Texas State University**, he was selected in the **1967 NFL Draft** and briefly played professional football before turning his talents to wrestling. ([WWE][2])

Trained by wrestling legend **Dory Funk Jr.**, Duncum became known for his rugged toughness, charismatic presence, and unforgettable persona in territories across the United States from the mid-1960s through the 1980s. He competed in major promotions including the **NWA**, the **AWA**, and the **World Wide Wrestling Federation**, where he became infamous for his hard-hitting style and **wild street fights** against iconic opponents such as **Bruno Sammartino** and **Bob Backlund**. ([F4W/WON][3])

As a member of the **Heenan Family** — one of wrestling’s most notorious villain stables — Duncum contributed to some of the most memorable rivalries of his era, thrilling fans with both his athletic ability and his larger-than-life character work. ([WWE][2])

Beyond the ring, Duncum’s legacy lives on through the wrestlers he inspired and his family. He was also the father of **Bobby Duncum Jr.**, a talented performer in his own right who tragically passed away in 2000. ([F4W/WON][3])

The wrestling community — from longtime fans to fellow athletes — extends its deepest condolences to Bobby Duncum Sr.’s family, friends, and admirers. His contributions to the sport and his unforgettable presence will not be forgotten.

**Rest in peace, Bobby Duncum Sr.** Your place in wrestling history is secure.

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Remembering Rick Link: A Southern Wrestling Legend (1959–2026)

The world of professional wrestling is mourning the loss of one of its rugged stalwarts, **Rick Link**, who passed away on **January 14, 2026** at the age of **66**. A beloved figure in the wrestling community, Link’s journey through the squared circle spanned decades and left a lasting impact on fans and fellow professionals alike.([Wikipedia][1])

### From Small Town Beginnings to Wrestling Territories

Born **Richard Link** in **Lexington, North Carolina**, in **1959**, Link entered the world of professional wrestling at just sixteen years old, trained by Johnny Hunter and making his debut in 1975. What followed was a hard-charging career through North America’s territorial wrestling scene — a time when the sport was still deeply regional and every territory had its own heroes and villains.([Wikipedia][1])

He became known under several intimidating ring names like **The Beastmaster**, **Man Mountain Link**, and **M.E.B. (Man Eating Beast)**, carving out a reputation as a physically imposing and gritty competitor who embodied the old-school ethos of professional wrestling.([Wikipedia][1])

### A Career Full of Grit and Respect

Rick Link wrestled across the United States and in Canada, often facing some of the biggest names in the business. Among his memorable runs was his time in the **National Wrestling Alliance (NWA)** and the **Continental Wrestling Association**, where he squared off against icons like Jerry “The King” Lawler and became respected for his toughness and presence in the ring.([Wikipedia][1])

Even after the peak of the territorial era, Link continued to wrestle and contribute to the sport. In the 1990s and beyond, he stayed active in independent promotions and helped nurture the next generation of talent through his training efforts. His later appearances often saw him sharing the ring with other NWA veterans from the Carolinas, reminding fans and peers alike of the deep roots of his wrestling legacy.([Wikipedia][1])

### Final Chapter and Legacy

In late 2025, after battling kidney disease and choosing to discontinue dialysis treatments, Rick Link entered hospice care. Wrestling fans around the world rallied to support his family during this difficult time. He passed on January 14, leaving behind a career defined by resilience, dedication, and the unmistakable aura of a true wrestling journeyman.([VICE][2])

Tributes from fellow wrestlers and fans highlight the respect Link earned throughout his life — not just as a competitor, but as a respected figure in the locker room and a mentor for younger talent. His story is a testament to an era of wrestling built on grit, travel, and sheer passion for the craft.

### Rest in Peace, Rick Link

Rick Link’s name may not have always been in the mainstream spotlight, but his influence runs deep among those who cherish the history and soul of professional wrestling. He’ll be remembered as a true embodiment of the sport’s hard-fought legacy — a warrior whose career was as unwavering as his presence in the ring.

Picture courtesy of Facebook/,Wrestling Glory Days, & Nance