Hollywood star Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has paid tribute to wrestler Lionheart following the Scots star’s tragic death earlier this week.
Glasgow-based Insane Championship Wrestling (ICW) announced on Wednesday night that their heavyweight champion, Adrian McCallum outside of the ring, had died at the age of 36.
A fundraising page set up to support his family in covering the costs of his funeral was set up, and at the time of writing has raised over £13,000 – more than double the target.
The Rock added his name to a host of WWE legends who have sent their best wishes to his friends and family. and recognised his importance to the boom in UK wrestling.
The Fast & Furious star tweeted a picture of Lionheart standing with his star on the Hollywood walk of fame.
So sorry to hear the news of Adrian @LionheartUK McCallum’s passing. He was a big wrestling star in the UK. Loved and respected. Never had the opportunity to shake this man’s hand but sending his family, friends & UK wrestling community love, support & strength. pic.twitter.com/TbmVizhnr0
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) June 21, 2019
He wrote: “So sorry to hear the news of Adrian McCallum’s passing. He was a big wrestling star in the UK. Loved and respected.
“Never had the opportunity to shake this man’s hand but sending his family, friends & UK wrestling community love, support & strength.”
The star also sent a message to Lionheart’s girlfriend Rebecca Kilgour.
She responded: “Knowing you remember him would mean everything to him! Please carry his memory with you – you were his idol from day 1.”
I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember tweeting him. Very sorry to hear the news. Sending love and strength your way.
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) June 21, 2019
The announcement of Lionheart’s death on Wednesday was met with an outpouring of messages of tribute and respect to a well-loved performer from friends, colleagues and fans.
Lionheart featured for numerous wrestling promotions across the world in a long career.
He bounced back from an injury that came close to ending his career in 2014, breaking his neck in a match with now-WWE star AJ Styles.
He made appearances in WWE and TNA, and was also a part of ITV’s relaunched World of Sport Wrestling.
Most recently, he featured on BBC Scotland series Rogue to Wrestler.
He took part in an ICW event on Sunday, beating Alexander Dean to retain his title and also win the UEWA Heavyweight Championship.
You can donate to the fundraiser at www.gofundme.com/adrianlionheartmccallum
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