Pete Rose Baseball Hits Leader and WWE Star dies at 83. Pete Rose, the all-time leader in baseball hits and a controversial figure in the sport, has died at the age of 83. Known for his exceptional talent and his downfall due to gambling, Rose’s legacy is marked by both his incredible achievements and the shadows of his choices.
The news of his passing was confirmed by Stephanie Wheatley, a spokesperson for Clark County, Nevada. The cause of death is still under investigation. Just days before his death, Rose was seen at an autograph event in Nashville alongside former Cincinnati Reds teammates Tony Perez, George Foster, and Dave Concepcion.
For many fans of the 1960s and ’70s, Rose, famously known as “Charlie Hustle,” was a symbol of excitement in baseball. His distinctive look—shaggy hair, a pug nose, and muscular forearms—along with his relentless playing style, made him a memorable figure. He was a player who ran hard to first base, even after walks, and dove headfirst into bases, embodying the gritty spirit of the game.
WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Pete Rose has passed away.
WWE extends its condolences to Rose’s family, friends and fans. pic.twitter.com/nfCHpq5bpJ
— WWE (@WWE) October 1, 2024
Although Rose is not enshrined in Cooperstown, he holds a unique place in another Hall of Fame. The WWE announced via social media that they were saddened by the news of Rose’s death and extended their condolences to his family and fans.
While primarily recognized as Major League Baseball’s Hit King, Rose also made a mark in the world of professional wrestling. He was a guest ring announcer at WrestleMania XIV, where he playfully insulted the Boston crowd, referencing the infamous “Curse of the Bambino.” His remarks led to a memorable moment when WWE star Kane delivered a tombstone piledriver to him, showcasing Rose’s willingness to engage in the spectacle of wrestling, despite not being a wrestler himself.
In 2004, Rose was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, becoming the first person to enter the Hall’s “celebrity wing.” During his induction speech, Kane humorously pointed out that the notes he had for the speech were meant for a different Hall of Fame, highlighting the extraordinary stats and achievements of Rose in baseball.
Despite his accolades in wrestling and his place in the Reds Hall of Fame, Rose remains banned from baseball due to his gambling scandal, which makes him ineligible for induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. In light of his passing, many former players and fans have renewed calls for his induction into Cooperstown. WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair expressed his admiration on social media, stating, “Just signing autographs with you yesterday, Pete! You’re not supposed to leave without saying goodbye! Love you, my dear friend! RIP knowing you are the greatest ever!”
As baseball and wrestling communities mourn the loss of Pete Rose, his complex legacy continues to evoke both admiration and controversy.
Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Net Worth and YouTube Success
