By James Caldwell, PWTorch assistant editor

WWE Hall of Famer Roddy Piper (Roderick Toombs) has died at the age of 61, reports TMZ.

According to the initial report, Piper suffered cardiac arrest during his sleep on Thursday night. He was discovered unresponsive Friday morning at his home in Hollywood, California.

“Rod passed peacefully in his sleep last night,” his agent, Jay Schachter, said in a statement. “I am shocked and beyond devastated. He was an icon, a legend, an amazing man, and a true friend.

- WWE issued an official statement: "WWE is deeply saddened that Roderick Toombs, a/k/a “Rowdy” Roddy Piper – WWE Hall of Famer and Intercontinental Champion – passed away today at the age of 61. WWE extends its sincerest condolences to Toombs’s family, friends, and fans.”

- WWE CEO Vince McMahon said: "Roddy Piper was one of the most entertaining, controversial and bombastic performers ever in WWE, beloved by millions of fans around the world. I extend my deepest condolences to his family."

- Hulk Hogan, who has been in the news for the wrong reasons over the past week, was quoted by TMZ: "I will forever miss him. He was my best friend. He is a legend."

- Ric Flair issued a statement to TMZ: "We've shared the ring, traveled the world, maintained a friendship throughout the ups and downs of the wrestling world, and battled to see who was the better heel. It's almost impossible to express my grief. My condolences to his children and to his wife Kitty. I'll miss you Roddy. The world will never be as Rowdy without you."

- Steve Austin, who recently had a back-and-forth Piper, tweeted: "I am shocked and saddened to hear of Roddy Piper's passing. He was one of a kind and one of the all time greats. #prowrestling."

[ LINK: TMZ Report HERE ]

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