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Personal Information
| Full Name | Virgil Riley Runnels, Jr. |
| Date of Birth | October 11, 1945 |
| Nationality | USA |
| Height | 6'1" |
| Family | Michelle Rubio (m. 1978–2015), Sandra Runnels (m. 1965–1975) |
Dusty Rhodes: A Brief Biography
Dusty Rhodes was an American Professional Wrestler, Trainer and Booker. He is considered a legend in the professional wrestling industry having worked in the NWA, Jim Crockett Promotions/WCW, and the WWF/WWE. One of the most unique things about Dusty Rhodes was that he was unlike most in his time. Dusty Rhodes' Physique was not typical of a professional wrestler. But he was billed as a common man, which helped in his popularity as a blue-collar wrestler. His persona was larger-than-life and for his time, his promos were unlike many.
Dusty Rhodes Wrestler Early Success
Dusty Rhodes had various feuds with several famous wrestlers including the likes of Abdullah the Butcher, Pak Song, Terry Funk, Kevin Sullivan, Blackjack Mulligan, Nikita Koloff, Harley Race, Superstar Billy Graham, "Crippler" Ray Stevens. But it was with Ric Flair which one could argue was Dusty Rhodes most famous feuds. In Oct 1985, Dusty Rhodes delivered a promo which came be known as The 'Hard Times' promo. While Dusty Rhodes showcased his delivery and range which was akin to a pastor of a church giving a sermon, it was his ability to touch the hearts and minds of many. His promo talked about the political climate of the time with the textile workers of business and the concepts of automation taking over American working life. This grew the legend of Dusty Rhodes which resonated with blue-collar fans who were out of work for one reason or the other as they thanked him for bringing attention to their plight on national television.
WWF/WWE Run
Dusty Rhodes eventually made his to the WWF in 1989, spotting yellow polka dots as was the trend of WWF in the time to have more cartoonish characters. While most saw this as unbefitting of a wrestling legend, Dusty Rhodes won over the fans easily with his high energy and over-the-top promos. He left the WWF in 1991, which also marked the end of his in-ring career.
Return to WCW
Dusty Rhodes returned to Jim Crockett Promotions/ WCW as a booker and making sporadic on-screen appearances. When WCW went out of business, Dusty Rhodes spent time at independent promotions including a stint in TNA. Dusty Rhodes would eventually return to WWE in 2005.
Final Years and Death
Dusty Rhodes was inducted in the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007 by his two sons, Goldust and Cody Rhodes. Dusty Rhodes would eventually pass away on June 11, 2015 at the age of 69. Dusty Rhodes' Legacy was one that defied the odds. He was the son of a plumber who became a national hero and a great wrestler known for hard hitting promos, a wonderful on-screen presence as well as a pure entertainer.
People also ask
When did Dusty Rhodes pass away?
June 11, 2015
What did Dusty Rhodes die of?
Stomach cancer
How much was Dusty Rhodes worth?
Dusty Rhodes was an American wrestler who had a net worth of $3 million dollars.
Who is Dusty Rhodes wife?
- Michelle Rubio (m. 1978–2015)
- Sandra Runnels (m. 1965–1975)
What was Dusty Rhodes real name?
Virgil Riley Runnels Jr.
