"Outlaw" Ron Bass Passes Away at Age 68; WWE Releases Statement
- It hasn’t been a good last few weeks for the wrestling industry as another former star of the 70s and 80s, “Outlaw” Ron Bass passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness. Bass was 68.
- Bass reportedly suffered appendicitis but did not realize the seriousness of the situation and delayed getting any medical intervention. Eventually his appendix burst and by then a week had gone by and it was too late as the infection overcame him.
- Bass’ WWE career was highlighted by a feud with Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake and he may be best known as the person who sidelined (for storyline purposes) and prevented Beefcake from wrestling for the Intercontinental Title at SummerSlam 88. That was the catalyst for the Ultimate Warrior stepping up, winning the title and the rest as they say, is history.
- WWE posted this late Tuesday evening:
WWE is saddened to learn that Ronald Heard, known to sports-entertainment fans as “Outlaw” Ron Bass, has passed away at the age of 68.
Debuting in 1975, the tough Texan performed in several NWA territories, including Jim Crockett Promotions and Florida Championship Wrestling.
It was in 1987 that Bass rose to national fame in WWE. With his ruthless attitude and dreaded bullwhip, Bass battled against classic fan favorites like Junkyard Dog and Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake. He even claimed a pinfall victory over a young Shawn Michaels in the 1988 King of the Ring tournament.
Following his retirement from the ring in 1991, Bass earned a bachelor’s degree from Arkansas State University and became a successful construction equipment salesman.
WWE extends its condolences to Heard’s family, friends and fans.