Yahoo Sports TNA Impact Wrestling announcer Don West dies aged 59
The wrestling world has paid tribute to former TNA Impact Wrestling announcer Don West who has died aged 59.
West, who had been battling Brain Lymphoma, became one of the most iconic voices of TNA in the 2000s, starting in 2002 Mike Tenay.
West's passing was announced by Tenay on Twitter who wrote: "Just heard from wife Terri that our brother @DonWestDeals will be spending New Years in heaven. Terri said D-Dub finally had to tap out from his match with lymphoma.
"We bonded as soon as we met, both as broadcast partners and friends. Years of great moments both on and off camera."
On Twitter Impact Wrestling wrote "IMPACT Wrestling is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Don West, one of the defining voices of our 20 year history.
"Don's enthusiasm and passion elevated every second he called and uplifted the spirits of everybody he crossed paths with. He will be dearly missed. #RIPDonWest."
Just heard from wife Terri that our brother @DonWestDeals will be spending New Years in heaven. Terri said D-Dub finally had to tap out from his match with lymphoma. We bonded as soon as we met, both as broadcast partners and friends. Years of great moments both on and off camera
— Mike Tenay (@RealMikeTenay) December 30, 2022
Scott D'Amore, the Executive Vice President of Impact Wrestling shared a tribute to West on the company's website which read: "You can't think about TNA/IMPACT without thinking of Don West. Don and Mike Tenay provided the soundtrack to so many iconic moments in company history. There was no more cherished member of the TNA/IMPACT family.
"Don was truly a one of a kind who brightened every room he walked into. He brought out the best in people and was an inspiration to all who crossed paths with him. He was one of the first people I met upon arriving at the TNA Asylum for the first time, and Don instantly made me feel welcome.
"His warm heart and legendary sense of humor made every day at work something to look forward to. I am forever grateful for being able to share a friendship with Don and truly know my career and my life are better because of having him in them," he continued.
"My deepest and heartfelt condolences go out to Don's wife Terri, his family and friends, and of course the millions of fans whose lives he touched.
IMPACT Wrestling is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Don West, one of the defining voices of our 20 year history. Don's enthusiasm and passion elevated every second he called and uplifted the spirits of everybody he crossed paths with. He will be dearly missed. #RIPDonWest pic.twitter.com/gy2s4vQDUj
— IMPACT (@IMPACTWRESTLING) December 30, 2022
"Today we mourn the loss of a special person, but let's also stop and celebrate the amazing life of our friend and brother, Don West. While we are here with heavy hearts, I know Don is busy planning heaven's most epic NYE celebration ever."
WWE's Michael Cole also paid tribute to West on SmackDown (December 30) saying: "I would like to offer my condolences here tonight to wrestling commentator Don West’s family. Don passed away earlier today. A man who made a true impact on the business. Godspeed to Mr. West.”
Alongside his work in wrestling West was also known for his appearances on the Shop at Home Network in the 1990s.
Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Don West.
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