Dory Funk Jr tribute prompts mixed reactions from wrestlers

Eighty‑five‑year‑old wrestling legend Dory Funk Jr passed away, prompting tributes across the sport. New Japan Pro‑Wrestling (NJPW) honored him with a traditional ten‑bell salute before its G1 Climax event. During the same show, NJPW wrestler Jake Lee competed in a heated bout against Great‑O‑Khan, which ended with Khan’s disqualification after a chair‑related incident.

In the United States, NXT talent Brooks Jensen voiced frustration on Twitter, saying he expected more current wrestlers to acknowledge Funk’s legacy. Jensen highlighted Funk’s historic four‑and‑a‑half‑year NWA World Championship reign and his longevity, noting personal memories of Funk visiting NXT events. The comments underscore a broader discussion about how newer generations honor pioneering figures in professional wrestling.