WWE News: In the latest WWE news, former WWE star, a veteran of the company Del Wilkes also known as The Patriot, has passed away aged 59. According to Charleston Post & Courier, the veteran wrestler passed due to a massive heart attack. He leaves behind a wife, Cathy, aged over 40.
WWE News: Veteran WWE star Del Wilkes passed away at 59. WWE posts a heartfelt message on Twitter. Check here
Wilkes has had runs in WWE, AWA, WCW, wrestling promotions in Japan, and much more. Wilkes was a former two-time former WCW World Tag Team Champion and a former AWA World Tag Team Champion. His last wrestling match for WWE came back in October 1997 when he lost to Jim Neidhart on Shotgun Saturday Night. One year later in 1998, he got released from the company due to a triceps injury.
WWE posted a heartfelt message on Twitter upon his loss.
“WWE is saddened to learn that Del Wilkes, known to WWE fans as The Patriot, has passed away at the age of 59. WWE extends its condolences to Wilkes’ family and friends.”
Here’s the post,
WWE is saddened to learn that Del Wilkes, known to WWE fans as The Patriot, has passed away at the age of 59.
WWE extends its condolences to Wilkes’ family and friends. https://t.co/jgdaqB27hd
— WWE (@WWE) July 1, 2021
After his release, Wilkes worked as a car salesman in Columbia, South Carolina, for 16 years. Also, he hosted the “Unmasking The Truth” podcast on the WWAB Podcast Network. Florida-based pastor Andy McDaniel, who was the co-host with Wilkes and one of his closest friends, issued a statement to The Post & Courier on his friend’s loss. He said,
“Del Wilkes would become a name that those in college football knew quite well. He would make his name familiar in the world of pro wrestling as well. However, regardless of the accolades or fame, he may have achieved, to me, he was best known as a friend. Del overcame his struggles in this life and became an inspiration to many. Our loss is Heaven’s gain.”