Sad news in the wrestling world today: on RAW, Jim Ross gave us the sad tidings that "Classy" Freddie Blassie died.

He was a longtime wrestling legend, one who even appeared on the Dick Van Dyke show many years ago.

He was one of the originators of hardcore as "the vampire" in his wrestling days. Once he retired from active competition, he became "the fashion plate", "Classy", one of the classic heel managers in the WWF in the 1980s.

The federation made a big promotion of his autobiography, Listen up, you pencil-necked geeks! recently. He told us stories of his life on Confidential... and 3 weeks ago, a frail wheelchair-bound Freddie still contributed to RAW.

Another legend gone. He'll be sorely missed.