Bobby Heenan, also known as “The Brain”, was one of the most influential and charismatic figures in the history of professional wrestling. He was a master of the microphone, a brilliant manager, and a witty commentator. He entertained millions of fans with his humor, intelligence, and villainy. He was also a courageous fighter who battled throat cancer for 15 years before passing away in 2017. This article will explore the cause of death of Bobby Heenan, his struggle with the disease, and his legacy in the wrestling industry.
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The Diagnosis and Treatment of Bobby Heenan’s Throat Cancer
Bobby Heenan was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2002, shortly after he retired from his commentary role in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). According to PopCulture.com, his death was a result of multiple organ failures due to throat cancer. Heenan underwent several surgeries and treatments to remove the tumor and reconstruct his jaw and tongue. He also had to endure chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which affected his speech and appearance. Heenan lost a lot of weight and had difficulty eating and swallowing. He also suffered from infections and other complications.
Despite the challenges, Heenan never gave up hope and continued to make public appearances and interact with his fans. He also wrote two books, titled Bobby the Brain: Wrestling’s Bad Boy Tells All and Chair Shots and Other Obstacles: Winning Life’s Wrestling Matches, in which he shared his personal and professional stories. Heenan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2004, where he delivered an emotional and humorous speech. He also appeared on several WWE shows and DVDs, such as The Self-Destruction of the Ultimate Warrior, The Triumph and Tragedy of World Class Championship Wrestling, and Legends of Wrestling.
The Impact and Influence of Bobby Heenan’s Career
Bobby Heenan began his wrestling career in 1961, when he was only 17 years old. He worked as a wrestler and a manager in various promotions, such as the World Wrestling Association (WWA), the American Wrestling Association (AWA), the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE), and WCW. He managed some of the biggest names in the business, such as Nick Bockwinkel, King Kong Bundy, Andre the Giant, Rick Rude, Mr. Perfect, and Ric Flair. He was also a part of some of the most memorable feuds and angles, such as the formation of the Heenan Family, the betrayal of Hulk Hogan by Andre the Giant, and the invasion of the nWo.
Heenan was also a talented commentator, who provided hilarious and insightful commentary alongside Gorilla Monsoon, Tony Schiavone, and others. He was known for his quick wit, his sarcastic remarks, and his biased support for the heels. He coined many catchphrases, such as “Will you stop?”, “That’s not fair to Flair”, and “You’re a humanoid”. He also had a unique chemistry with Monsoon, who often played the straight man to Heenan’s antics. Their banter and friendship was one of the highlights of the WWF programming in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Heenan is widely regarded as one of the greatest managers and commentators of all time. He influenced many wrestlers and personalities who followed him, such as Paul Heyman, Jim Cornette, Jerry Lawler, and Corey Graves. He was also loved and respected by his peers and fans, who admired his passion, his professionalism, and his personality. He was honored with several awards and accolades, such as the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame, and the WWE Hall of Fame.
The Legacy and Memory of Bobby Heenan
Bobby Heenan passed away on September 17, 2017, at the age of 73. He left behind his wife of 39 years, Cynthia, and his daughter, Jessica. He also left behind a legion of fans and friends, who mourned his loss and celebrated his life. Many wrestlers and personalities paid tribute to him on social media and in interviews, such as Vince McMahon, Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Steve Austin, The Rock, and Triple H. WWE also aired a video package and a 10-bell salute in his honor on Monday Night Raw and SmackDown Live.
Bobby Heenan’s cause of death was a tragic end to a remarkable life. He was a legend in the wrestling industry, who entertained and inspired millions of people with his talent and charisma. He was also a fighter, who faced his illness with courage and dignity. He will always be remembered as “The Brain”, the greatest manager and commentator of all time. He will always be a part of the wrestling family. He will always be a WWE Hall of Famer. He will always be Bobby Heenan.
