WWE legend and Hall of Famer Pat Patterson has died, according to the wrestling company.

Patterson was 79.

Born Pierre Clermont, he was the first WWE Intercontinental Champion and thought to be the first openly gay wrestling star, which he detailed in his 2016 book, “Accepted: How the First Gay Superstar Changed WWE.”

Patterson was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1996. After retiring as an active wrestler in 1984, he worked behind the scenes in WWE and was credited with originating the Royal Rumble, one of the company’s signature events.

He gained fame in the wrestling business as a member of a successful tag team with Ray Stevens in the San Francisco territory in the 1960s and ’70s. He was inducted into the Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame in 1996.

Many WWE stars and former employees reacted to Patterson’s passing on social media, including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, John Cena, WWE CEO Vince McMahon and more.

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A post shared by therock (@therock)

Loss is incredibly difficult. Those we love are only truly gone if we stop caring. Pat Patterson lived life as it should be lived with passion, love and purpose. He helped so many and always entertained with a story or joke. He will live on in my life always. Love you Patrick.

— John Cena (@JohnCena) December 2, 2020

Pat Patterson was more than the first Intercontinental Champion & father of the Royal Rumble Match. He helped lay the foundation for WWE as we know it. His mentorship shaped careers, his creativity sparked innovation and his friendship lifted spirits. Love you, Pat. We miss you. pic.twitter.com/TugpAOrN6O

— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) December 2, 2020

#PatPatterson was the #Yoda to my Luke. He taught me 90% of what I know about putting together a wrestling match. He was a confidant, a mentor, a collaborator, a comedian, a singer and most importantly... a friend. I love you Pat...this hockey puck is gonna miss you. pic.twitter.com/FnqzSZD8pH

— Chris Jericho (@IAmJericho) December 2, 2020

Very saddened to hear about the passing of one of my best friends..Pat Patterson. He had an infectious personality where you always wanted to be around him. This photo of Pat, @ShawnMichaels and me was from Wrestlemania 21. Pat helped us create an incredible Story. #RIPHOFer pic.twitter.com/APHVs7hRoi

— Kurt Angle (@RealKurtAngle) December 2, 2020

Just heard of the passing this morning if the great, Pat Patterson.

True legend of the pro wrestling business.

A wonderful mentor who taught me so much. RIP old friend. ? pic.twitter.com/t61R9yCze1

— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) December 2, 2020

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