One half of pro wrestling’s feared “Legion of Doom” has died.
Road Warrior Animal – real name Joe Laurinaitis – died Wednesday of unknown causes at age 60. Along with his longtime partner Road Warrior Hawk, The Road Warriors are considered by many to be the greatest tag team to ever lace the boots. Known for their spiked leather outfits, mohawks and facepaint, The Road Warriors terrorized wrestling territories and organizations worldwide during the 80s and 90s. Animal and Hawk have the distinction of being the first team to win the three major World Tag Team Championships in the NWA, WWE and AWA (the top three organizations of their time) and in the early days used Black Sabbath’s “Iron Man” as their entrance music.
At this time, we would like to confirm the passing of Joseph Laurinaitis aka Road Warrior Animal at the age of 60. The family is planning to release a statement later today. At this time we ask for you to keep everyone in your thoughts and prayers. #OhWhatARush
— RoadWarriorAnimal (@RWAnimal) September 23, 2020
Laurinaitis was predeceased by his partner Road Warrior Hawk (real name Michael Hegstrand) in 2003 from a heart attack. He was 46. Laurinaitis’ son, James formerly played in the NFL. A statement from the family is forthcoming.
