Wrestling legend "The American Dream," a.k.a. Dusty Rhodes, passes away at 69

STAMFORD, Conn. -- World Wrestling Entertainment officials on Thursday announced that Virgil Runnels, aka "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, has passed away at the age of 69.

The WWE Hall of Famer was a three-time NWA Champion and one of the most captivating and charismatic figures in wrestling history.

The WWE released a statement saying "Runnels became a hero to fans around the world thanks to his work ethic, his impassioned interviews and his indomitable spirit. Moreover, Runnels was a dedicated father to WWE superstars Goldust (Dustin Runnels) and Stardust (Cody Runnels), a caring husband and a creative visionary who helped shape the landscape of WWE long after his in-ring career had ended."

He became famous during the height of wrestling's popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, appearing in signature yellow polka dot tights with his sidekick "valet" Sapphire.

One of his more memorable speeches came back on October 29, 1985, when he talked about "hard times" ahead of a match with then-champion Ric Flair.

After the news was announced, other wrestlers took to Twitter to express their condolences.

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