WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam recently paid tribute to Wrestling legend Lanny Poffo, who passed away at 68 years of age. He was better known by his ring names “Leaping,” Lanny Poffo, and The Genius. For those unaware, he was the younger brother of the legendary “Macho Man” Randy Savage.
RVD posted a picture with Lanny Poffo and wrote the following the caption:
Flying high with @lannypoffo . His shirt says it all.
Seriously though, I’ve always said that Lanny was my inspiration growing up, as a fan of his unusually athletic move set. I’m glad I got to tell him. You never know when you’re seeing someone for the last time.
RIP
Before making his debut in WWE (then WWF) in 1985, Lanny wrestled for several other promotions, including NWA, International Championship Wrestling, Mid-South Wrestling, and more.
WWE issued a statement on Lanny’s passing away which read:
“WWE is saddened to learn that Lanny Poffo, best known to sports-entertainment fans as The Genius, passed away at 68 years of age.
The son of Angelo Poffo and younger brother of WWE Hall of Famer “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Lanny Poffo had a style all his own. Arriving in WWE in 1985 alongside his brother, “Leaping” Lanny Poffo was one of the first high-flyers in WWE. While he achieved some success as a fan favorite reading his own poetry and throwing Frisbees to the crowd, he reached new heights as The Genius while managing Mr. Perfect.
WWE extends its condolences to Poffo’s family, friends and fans.”
