It’s a sad day in the world of wrestling.
One of the most charismatic Fijian athletes of all time – Jimmy ‘Superfly’ snuka passed away on 15th January at the age of 73. He lost his ongoing battle with cancer that made him undergo surgery to remove certain parts of his stomach to be cancer free. It was in December 2016 that doctors announced that he has 6 months to live.
He was known for his ‘High Flying’ style which gave him the nickname ‘Superfly’.
Jimmy was in an ongoing trial wherein he was charged with third degree murder and manslaughter of his ex-wife Nancy Argentino. The judge ruled that Jimmy is unfit to stand for trial due to his battle with cancer and decline in health. He passed away just a few days after his acquittal.
WWE released a statement expressing their grief on his passing:
“WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy ‘Superfly’ Snuka has passed away. Snuka is regarded by many as the pioneer of high-flying offense because of his Superfly Splash from the top turnbuckle. His dive off the top of the steel cage onto Don Muraco at Madison Square Garden as hundreds of flash bulbs went off will forever live as one of the most memorable moments in WWE history.
WWE extends its condolences to Snuka’s family, friends and fans.”
His daughter, who is also a WWE superstar, took to Instagram to pay respects to her dad:
The caption read: I LOVE YOU DAD #FOREVERMYDAD #RestWell #FamiliesAreForever #BestDad #SnukaLegacy
The Rock took to Twitter to announce the news of Jimmy’s demise:
Our family @TaminaSnuka asked me to share the sad news that her dad Jimmy Snuka has just passed away. Alofa atu i le aiga atoa. #RIPSuperfly
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) January 15, 2017
Post his announcement, Twitter came out to express their grief:
One of the most iconic photos in wrestling. Before high risk was high fashion. Jimmy Snuka captured the imagination of us all. pic.twitter.com/1o1M3UBMpN
— Brian Heffron (@BlueMeanieBWO) January 15, 2017
Respect for the family of Jimmy Snuka! Can't help but shed a tear thinking of you… Much Love! @TaminaSnuka @WWE
— Curtis Axel (@RealCurtisAxel) January 15, 2017
So sorry to learn of the passing of the legendary Jimmy Snuka. His career had such a huge impact on my life. pic.twitter.com/I4JZP7XICJ
— Mick Foley (@RealMickFoley) January 15, 2017
When asked how he was doing, the late Jimmy Snuka would smile and often say, "Lovely, Bruddah." #RIPSuperfly
— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) January 15, 2017
RIP Superfly. WWE won’t be the same without you!
