The Iron Sheik, legendary wrestler and former heavyweight champion, has died at age 81.

The WWE Hall of Fame inductee is best known for defeating Bob Backlund for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship in 1983.

His iconic "Camel Clutch" finishing maneuver is a signature in professional wrestling.

Numerous tributes have been made by the wrestling community, including Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

His representatives confirmed his passing, remembering him as a true legend who left a lasting legacy.

The Iron Sheik is survived by his wife, Caryl Peterson, and his children, Tanya, Nikki, and Marissa.

Born in Iran, Sheik's wrestling career began with representing Iran’s national team at the 1968 Summer Olympics.

His professional career started in the American Wrestling Association, under the tutelage of Verne Gagne.

His career peaked in 1983 when he defeated Bob Backlund at Madison Square Garden and later Hulk Hogan dethroned him.

The WWE and the wrestling world mourn the loss of this iconic figure, with tributes pouring in from around the world.