Professional wrestler, Christopher Pallies popularly known as King Kong Bundy who rose to fame in the 1980s when he battled Hulk Hogan in a steel cage match has died at the age of 61.

The news of Bundy’s demise was shared on Facebook on Wednesday by his long-time friend, David Herro who wrote: “Today, we lost a legend and a man I consider family. Rest in peace Chris. We love you.”

Although authorities have not yet revealed the cause of the wrestler’s death, the wrestling industry and fans have shared their memories of the wrestler, describing him as  a hero and icon.

In a statement published on its website, WWE said it was saddened to learn of the death of Bundy who they said was ‘one of the greatest and most eye-catching big men to lace up a set of boots.

The King Kong Bundy character was developed by Mr. Pallies on the New Jersey wrestling scene, where he capitalized on his immense size.

According to his official WWE profile, Bundy weighed more than 208kg and was known as the ‘walking condominium’.

He made his WWE debut in 1981 where he quickly developed his signature move known as the ‘the five count’ which delighted audiences as he demanded the referee to count to five rather than the customary three once he pinned  his opponent to the mat.