The entire entertainment industry has been mourning the death of country music legend and icon Toby Keith, who was announced had passed on Tuesday at age 62. Keith had been battling stomach cancer.
As fans and friends were sharing their favorite Keith songs, how many recall his brief moment in a pro wrestling ring?
TNA Wrestling ‘Deeply Saddened’ By the Death of Toby Keith
The year was 2002 and it was the launch of Nashville-based ‘Total Nonstop Action’ wrestling, known affectionately as ‘TNA’ wrestling.
The Wrestling Observer reported on Tuesday, “TNA Wrestling is ‘deeply saddened’ by the death of country music star Toby Keith.”
The report continued:
Keith passed away at 62 years old on Monday following a battle with stomach cancer. A statement released on Keith’s official website said that he “passed peacefully” while surrounded by his family.
While known for his music, Keith was also a pro wrestling fan whose friendship with Jeff Jarrett led to him performing at the first-ever TNA Wrestling event in 2002. Keith took part in angles on the first two NWA-TNA shows.
Later, Keith and Jarrett considered buying TNA or starting a new wrestling promotion together, but the idea was never able to come to fruition.
Jeff Jarrett’s podcast X account paid tribute to the late singer on Tuesday.
Keith also appeared on WWE Monday Night Raw in October 2010.
Pro wrestling commentator and longtime WWE personality, Jim Ross was also friends with Keith, posting on X, “My heart is heavy today upon hearing that my friend Toby Keith has left us. I’m so sad. A true man’s man. Boomer Sooner Big T.”
Gone way too soon.
RIP
