Long time WWE manager and commentator, as well as WWE Hall of Famer, Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, has passed away. He was 73 years old.
"Weasel! Weasel! Weasel! Weasel!"
Who can recall chanting that every time Bobby Heenan entered the arena, or shouting that to the TV screen, in disdain for "the Brain" whenever he made a disparaging remark about Hulk Hogan or any other of the WWF's heroes? Nobody could rile up a crowd better than Heenan.
We loved seeing him get his just due whenever he went too far, but no one took a bump better than Heenan. Even after he suffered a real neck injury (took a bump the wrong way, I hear) he still was at the top of his game. And I suppose God wanted a good Weasel Suit match ... and now the fans in that great arena in the sky are getting them ... Dick the Bruiser, 'Da Crusher and the Ultimate Warrior all with him.
I've seen recent photos of Heenan, with the ravages of cancer and other illnesses he suffered deforming his face, almost actually taking on the appearance of a weasel's head. How sadly ironic, given that was the derisive nickname he was called (in reference to an underhanded person who talks tough but then tries to backpedal or cower in fear when threatened) by fans; this time, we hurt for Heenan and prayed that this was one opponent he could beat. The good thing was, even though I'm sure he knew that he wasn't going to win, he was determined to be with those "ham-and-eggers" and "humanoids" (his fans, natch), who have many memories of him and the joy and love of the industry he had and gave fans.
The best thing was, he was with his family when he passed. Probably not a better way to go, I suppose.
There was once the remark Heenan once made, during a match on "WWF Wrestling Challenge" where he, in mocking Gorilla Monsoon, said he dreamed he had died and went to Heaven ... until he saw Monsoon waiting for him at the Pearly Gates. This time, I can picture Monsoon waiting for "the Brain" at the Pearly Gates ... only I'm sure it was a joyous, wonderful reunion between two old friends, and all their other real-life friends (including Heenan Family members who had previously died, and the Brain's "enemies" all cheering and also sharing old memories as well).
RIP, Bobby "the Brain" Heenan. You'll be missed.
Brian