Dwayne Johnson Leads Tributes to WWE Legend Jimmy Snuka

Jimmy Snuka
Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka gained notoriety in the 1980s for his high-flying style and was also implicated in the death of his girlfriend in 1983. He has died aged 73. WWE

Dwayne Johnson has led tributes to retired WWE wrestler Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka, who died Sunday aged 73.

Snuka, one of the biggest stars of the 1980s and famed for his high-flying style, had been suffering from dementia and cancer.

Johnson broke news of his death on his Twitter page:

Our family @TaminaSnuka asked me to share the sad news that her dad Jimmy Snuka has just passed away. Alofa atu i le aiga atoa. #RIPSuperfly

— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) January 15, 2017

Snuka's death comes just two weeks after a Pennsylvania judge dropped murder charges against him, deeming him unfit to stand trial.

The wrestler was implicated in the 1983 death of his girlfriend Nancy Argentino; however, no charges were brought against him until 2015.

In June 2016, Snuka was deemed unfit for trial due to his diminished mental capacity and a medical evaluation was ordered. The charges against him were formally dropped on January 3.

Snuka's daughter Sarona, who competes as Tamina Snuka in WWE, posted a picture with the message "I love you Dad" on her Instagram page:

Many of Snuka's compatriots from the 1980s, including Hulk Hogan, also honored the late star.

Snuka, who was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1996, appeared in Hogan's corner at the first WrestleMania event in 1985.

RIP Superfly. Only love HH

— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) January 15, 2017

GOD BLESS JIMMY SNUKA. HE WILL FLY ALL THE WAY TO HEAVEN. WHAT A SWEET MAN. LOVE YOU BROTHER!!!!

— JakeSnakeDDT (@JakeSnakeDDT) January 15, 2017

So sorry to hear about the passing of Super Fly Jimmy Snuka, one of a kind and a pioneer, my condolences to family, friend and fans

— Michael PS Hayes (@MichaelPSHayes1) January 15, 2017

WWE chief executive Stephanie McMahon said Snuka was "one of the greatest icons in the history of our business."

#RIPSuperfly one of the greatest icons in the history of our business. Sending our love and prayers to the entire family. https://t.co/AxmHKYrDj8

— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) January 15, 2017

Certain individuals take our industry to new heights. He was one of them. Thinking of the Snuka family tonight. #RIPSuperfly pic.twitter.com/QXawuVLoaS

— Triple H (@TripleH) January 15, 2017

When asked how he was doing, the late Jimmy Snuka would smile and often say, "Lovely, Bruddah." #RIPSuperfly

— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) January 15, 2017

So sorry to learn of the passing of the legendary Jimmy Snuka. His career had such a huge impact on my life. pic.twitter.com/I4JZP7XICJ

— Mick Foley (@RealMickFoley) January 15, 2017

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