Ric Flair has joined several names from the professional wrestling world in paying tribute to country music legend Dolly Parton following her death at the age of 80.
Dolly Parton died peacefully in Nashville on August 25, 2026, with her family confirming the news in a statement shared by her nephew, Bryan Seaver. Her death prompted tributes from across the entertainment and sports industries, including several current and former wrestling personalities. Ric Flair shared an emotional message on social media in which he described Parton as the “Queen of Country Music” and reflected on his admiration for her career.
“I’m So Sad To Hear About The Passing Of The Queen Of Country Music, @DollyParton!” Flair wrote. “I Was A Huge Fan Of Her Music. As A Boy, I Could Only Dream! Rest In Peace Dolly! My Condolences To The Friends & Family Of The Legendary Dolly Parton!”
The WWE Hall of Famer later posted a second tribute, comparing their ages and expressing his hope that his own career will eventually be remembered with similar affection.
“Dolly, I’m 77, 3 Years Behind You, And I Only Hope That People Remember Me In The Same Light As You And Your Greatness!” Flair wrote. “And You’re A Much Bigger Star Than I Ever Dreamed Of Being!”
Wrestling World Pays Tribute To Dolly Parton
Ric Flair was joined by several other wrestling personalities in remembering Dolly Parton. TNA star AJ Francis posted “RIP Dolly,” while WWE SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis described her as “one of the last genuine icons.” WWE Raw General Manager Adam Pearce wrote:
“Godspeed, Legend.”
Rock ‘n’ Roll Express member Ricky Morton shared a more personal tribute, reflecting on growing up in Tennessee and watching Parton’s journey towards becoming a worldwide star. Road Dogg described Parton as an “entertainer’s entertainer” and one of the remaining stars from a special generation. Glenn Jacobs, better known to WWE fans as Kane, remembered Parton as an:
“Amazing entertainer, entrepreneur, businesswoman, and philanthropist.”
Linda McMahon also paid tribute to Parton’s legacy, highlighting her philanthropic efforts and particularly her work benefiting children. Parton’s career extended far beyond country music, with thousands of songs written and recorded during her decades in entertainment. She also had an unusual connection to professional wrestling through Hulk Hogan.
In 1987, a tabloid story claiming Parton could leave her husband and marry a 300-pound professional wrestler inspired a storyline on her ABC variety series Dolly. Parton recorded “He’s Got a Headlock on My Heart” for the storyline, while Hogan portrayed fictional wrestler Starlight Starbright. The crossover eventually culminated in a mock wedding, providing one of the more unusual links between Parton’s lengthy entertainment career and professional wrestling.
