Credit: Dave Meltzer

Lord Al Hayes, an in-ring star in the 60s and 70s who was best known for his role as a television announcer for WWE in the 80s, passed away this morning. He was 77.

Hayes had been in poor health for some time, slowed by ring injuries and eventually, contracting gangrene which caused amputation of part of his leg.

He suffered a fall a few days ago in the Dallas area nursing home he was living in, which led to a series of strokes, which are believed to be the cause of death.

"oh-hh...my word"!

I guess he was quite the heel in his wrestling days. From what I've heard, he was sort of like Steven/William Regal. Think he was rather accomplished in judo, as well. Quite a contrast from the friendly, mild-mannered English gent we all remember.

..and just to beat all y'all to it:

"Promotional considerations paid for by the following!!"

I'll always have fond memories of Piper bitch slapping Hayes and the Funks hanging him from a tree on TNT.

That's what I'm talkin about...