Dory Funk Jr., the former NWA World Heavyweight Champion whose career spanned major international wrestling events and influential training work, has died at 85. He died on August 4, according to the information available in the report.
Funk became known to wrestling audiences through his reign as NWA World Heavyweight Champion, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the sport’s championship history. His work extended beyond the ring as his influence continued through training and mentorship.
As a trainer, Funk helped prepare performers who would go on to become future WWE stars. That second chapter added to his legacy, connecting his own championship career with the development of later generations of professional wrestlers.
His death marks the loss of a veteran whose impact was felt both in international main events and behind the scenes, where he helped shape wrestling talent after his time as a leading champion.
