WWE is saddened to learn that legendary Superstar and patriarch has passed away today at 82 years old following a long illness and kidney failure.

As noted, wrestling legend “The Axe” Larry Hennig passed away at the age of 82 today. Hennig, a former AWA Tag Team Champion, was the grandfather to WWE Superstar Curtis Axel and the father to the late WWE Hall of Famer “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig.

Curtis and WWE have released statements on the passing of The Axe. WWE’s statement noted that Hennig passed following a long illness and kidney failure.

See also: BREAKING NEWS: Daniel Bryan Leaving Brie Bella At Last — Brie Bella Makes Huge Announcement In Tears…

Axel noted that his grandfather was his biggest supporter since day one. He wrote, “No one has had a bigger impact on my wrestling career than my Papa Axe.”

Below are the full statements from Axel and WWE, along with a few Twitter tributes from around the wrestling world:

Larry “The Axe” Hennig passes away

PAINFUL UPDATE: WWE Woman Star Involved In An Accident

WWE is saddened to learn that legendary Superstar and Hennig family patriarch Larry “The Axe” Hennig passed away today at 82 years old following a long illness and kidney failure.

A five-time tag team champion in the AWA, Hennig entered the sports-entertainment world under the tutelage of Verne Gagne and crossed paths with some of the most illustrious performers of all time.

WWE NEWS: UPDATE On Ronda Rousey Pregnant For Travis Browne — See Ronda Rousey’s Pregnancy Scan/Result… See Pregnancy Photo

Most famously, Hennig was among Bruno Sammartino’s challengers for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in the hallowed halls of Madison Square Garden.

Though his own career was cut short due to injury, Hennig’s legacy spanned another two generations thanks to his son, the late WWE Hall of Famer Mr. Perfect, and grandson, former Intercontinental Champion Curtis Axel.

See FRESH Photos Of Charlotte Flair Enhanced B00bs — Charlotte Flair Goes T0pless BACKSTAGE SHOWING OFF Her Heavy B00BS

WWE extends its condolences to Hennig’s family, friends and fans.