WWE is saddened to learn that Jerry Jarrett has passed away at age 80.

The father of WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett, the elder Jarrett was a hugely influential figure in the wrestling industry. Jarrett wrestled primarily for NWA Mid-America, winning multiple Tag Team Championships before hanging up his boots to focus on booking and promoting.

Along with his partner Jerry “The King” Lawler, the two collaborated to create the Continental Wrestling Assocation (CWA), building it into a successful promotion in the Memphis area. CWA would later merge with World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW) to form the United States Wrestling Association (USWA).

In 2002, he and his son, formed NWA: TNA, which helped launch the careers of future WWE Superstars such as AJ Styles, Xavier Woods, Bobby Roode, and more.

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