The pro wrestling world is paying tribute to television icon Regis Philbin who passed away today at the age of 88.
While he is best known for hosting Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Million Dollar Password and the first season of America’s Got Talent, Regis Philbin also contributed to the world of pro wrestling. Regis confessed numerous times that he had been a wrestling fan his entire life.
On Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee he hosted many wrestlers including The Undertaker, Yokozuna, Diesel, Shawn Michaels and a host of others.
Philbin was an on-air guest at WrestleMania VII and even assisted with the play-by-play of the main event match between Hulk Hogan and Sgt. Slaughter for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. He also interviewed The Undertaker at the event backstage…
He would return years later to congratulate the WWE for its 1,000 episode of Raw.
The WWE itself issued a statement saying:
WWE is saddened to learn that legendary entertainment figure Regis Philbin has passed away at age 88.
WWE Superstars were frequent guests on Philbin’s morning show, “Live with Regis and Kathie Lee,” including Ultimate Warrior, “Ravishing” Rick Rude, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, John Cena and many more. Philbin even battled the massive Yokozuna in an epic tug-of-war on an episode.
The TV icon was also a memorable presence at WrestleMania VII where he conducted backstage interviews and provided commentary for the main event showdown between WWE Champion Sgt. Slaughter and Hulk Hogan. Regis also appeared on the historic Raw 1000, sending a classy congratulatory message to WWE.
WWE extends its condolences to Philbin’s family, friends and fans.
Members of the industry remembered Philbin today with messages of praise and condolences.
