Memphis Announcer Lance Russell Has Passed Away

We are saddened to report that legendary wrestling announcer Lance Russell has passed away. He was 91. Russell was the voice of Memphis wrestling for decades.

His family confirmed the news on Tuesday morning:

Hey All, wanted to share the sad news that dad passed away this morning. You all have been a blessing in this difficult time. Thank You!!!

— Lance Russell (@MemphisLance) October 3, 2017

WWE Hall of Famers Jerry “The King” Jerry, who credits Russell for starting his wrestling career, spoke to Commercial Appeal by phone this morning and revealed that Russell fell, broke a hip and died early Tuesday. “It’s like losing my father again,” he said.

The wrestling world remembers Lance Russell:

My dear friend and greatest wrestling commentator ever, Lance Russell passed away this morning. I would have never been without him. R.I.P. pic.twitter.com/bD4AlK5dsF

— Jerry Lawler (@JerryLawler) October 3, 2017

Horrible weekend for all of us. @MemphisLance Russell has passed at 91. Memphis icon–sport's nicest man–best at what he did–friend.#RIP

— Jim Cornette (@TheJimCornette) October 3, 2017

Every TV station, paper in Memphis reporting on the passing of @MemphisLance who hosted highest rated TV show in town for 40 years.#ICON

— Jim Cornette (@TheJimCornette) October 3, 2017

RIP Lance Russell…professional wrestling voice of my childhood and very instrumental in my early career… … https://t.co/QWScdDuu8c

— Jeff Jarrett (@RealJeffJarrett) October 3, 2017

There are people far more qualified than I to pay tribute to @MemphisLance, but I must pay my respects. RIP #LanceRussell pic.twitter.com/gTKeYmA3Cz

— Paul Heyman (@HeymanHustle) October 3, 2017

Your father was a gentleman, an icon in the industry, and a man with a voice that could create art. Rest In Peace Mr. Russell. https://t.co/qb0dy68ERF

— Eric Bischoff (@EBischoff) October 3, 2017

Very sorry to hear of the passing of Lance Russell.I met him a few times and he was always a lovely gentleman.Having and hearing him call a few of my bouts in MCW in 2000 was a real treat.

— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) October 3, 2017

They say the good die young, but the truely great make it to 91. #RIP https://t.co/oAFBvJ2xDv

— Lance Storm (@LanceStorm) October 3, 2017

Heartfelt condolences to the family & friends of the legendary Lance Russell. One of the all-time great wrestling announcers. #Memphis icon. pic.twitter.com/lpXpKzL8xh

— NWALegends.com (@NWALegends) October 3, 2017