Rick Rude was an American professional wrestler best known for his time in WWE and WCW, where he was known as “Ravishing Rick Rude.” He gained fame for his charismatic persona and memorable feuds with other wrestling legends.
Personal and Family Life
Rick Rude, born Richard Erwin Rood on December 7, 1958, grew up in Robbinsdale, Minnesota. He was married twice; first to Cheryl Holler from 1980 to 1982, and later to Michelle Brown from 1988 until his death in 1999. He had three children and a sister named Nancy Rood.
Career Highlights
Rude started his wrestling career after training with Eddie Sharkey and made a name for himself in the wrestling circuit during the 1980s. He was known for his finishing move, “The Rude Awakening,” and for interacting with fans, famously kissing women in the audience after his matches. Rude achieved great success and held the WWF Intercontinental Championship after defeating The Ultimate Warrior at WrestleMania V, among other titles throughout his career.
Death and Legacy
Rick Rude passed away on April 20, 1999, due to cardiac arrest in Alpharetta, Georgia, at the age of 40. His legacy lives on through his unforgettable performances and influence on the world of professional wrestling. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017, honoring his contributions to the sport.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| WWE WrestleMania V | 1989-04-02 | “Ravishing” Rick Rude |
| WWE Royal Rumble 1990 | 1990-01-21 | “Ravishing” Rick Rude |
| WWE SummerSlam 1989 | 1989-08-28 | Rick Rude |
| WWE WrestleMania VI | 1990-04-01 | “Ravishing” Rick Rude |
| WWF Wrestling Challenge | 1986-09-07 | Rick Rude |
| Saturday Night’s Main Event | 1985-05-11 | |
| WWE: Top 50 Superstars of All Time | 2010-12-07 | “Ravishing” Rick Rude |
| WWE: The U.S. Championship: A Legacy of Greatness | 2016-04-26 | ‘Ravishing’ Rick Rude (archive footage) |
| WWE Hall of Fame 2017 | 2017-03-31 |