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Buddy Landel dies at 53: Pro wrestling legend known as ?The Nature Boy? died in car accident

Posted: Jun 22nd 2015 By: India.com

Wrestling legend Buddy Landel famously known as ?The Nature Boy? passed away on June 21, Sunday night at the age of 53 in Chilhowee, Virginia. News of the death of professional American wrestler was reported by PWInsider.com, which confirmed over Landel being involved in a car accident this weekend. While it is yet to be confirmed but first reports hint over Buddy Landel being found dead in sleep by his wife. The 53-year-old had checked himself in hospital after being involved in car crash.

Buddy Landel, who was an East Tennessee wrestling legend gained popularity with wrestling for WCW, Mid-Atlantic Wrestling, Smoky Mountain (1994 and 1995) and many more. One of the popular pro-wrestling figures in mid-80s Buddy Landel was also hired by WWE in 1995 but suffered a bad knee injury just days after being hired.

WWE released this statement about Landel: ?WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of William Ansor, aka ?Nature Boy? Buddy Landel.

Landel made his in-ring debut in 1979, performing in regional promotions before signing in 1985 with the NWA?s Jim Crockett Promotions. With flowing blond locks, glittering robes and WWE Hall of Famer J.J. Dillon in his corner, Landel set his sights on then-NWA World Champion ?Nature Boy? Ric Flair. Though he left Crockett Promotions by the end of the year, Landel left his mark, defeating Terry Taylor at Starrcade 1985 to capture the NWA National Championship.

Landel continued to compete in various promotions in Tennessee and Alabama, then returned to the NWA in 1990 to face off with Flair in a ?Battle of the Nature Boys,? before moving on to compete in Smoky Mountain Wrestling. He also made brief appearances in WWE in 1995 and 1996.

WWE extends its condolences to Landel?s family, friends and fans.

Some of the major accomplishments of Buddy Landel were winning titles like American Independent Wrestling Federation, AWF Heavyweight Championship, NWA National Heavyweight Championship, USA Tennessee Heavyweight Championship and many more. He was also inducted into the Legends Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame on August 27, 2011