Howard Finkel dead: WWE Hall of Famer dies aged 69

Finkel was affectionately known as 'The Fink' in the wrestling industry
WWE/YouTube
Matt Davies16 April 2020

WWE Hall of Famer and legendary wrestling announcer Howard Finkel has died at the age of 69.

Finkel - affectionately nicknamed 'The Fink' - made his ring announcing debut in 1977 at Madison Square Garden for the WWWF (the WWF's predecessor), before the organisation eventually became known as the WWE.

A WWE statement read: "When considering the greatest ring announcers in the history of sports and sports-entertainment, you’d be hard-pressed to name one better than Howard Finkel.

"A native of Newark, NJ, “The Fink” — a label that had been attached affectionately to Howard over the years — made his ring announcing debut at Madison Square Garden in 1977 for WWE’s predecessor, WWF.

"In addition to his legendary tenure as a ring announcer, The Fink was an indispensable resource inside the WWE offices for his vast knowledge of sports-entertainment history.

"Well respected by current Superstars, WWE Legends and Hall of Famers, Finkel’s encyclopedic memory and kindness made him beloved among his colleagues. The Fink was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on April 4, 2009.

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

Stephanie McMahon, the chief brand officer of WWE and daughter of owner Vince McMahon, tweeted: "In what has already been a tough week for our @WWE family, today we lost our 1st ever employee and WWE Hall of Famer, @howardfinkel.

"Howard’s voice is iconic & recognized by generations of fans. He will be missed. #RIPHowardFinkel Thank you for everything."

Legendary WWE superstar Hulk Hogan also Tweeted: "Howard Finkle was on Team Hogan through the good and bad times.

"Even when I was on the outs Howard would call on a consistent basis to tell me to always keep my head up.

"It was 'never say never' and 'you and Vince will work it out'. My good friend RIP, I love you for life."

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