Jimmy Snuka Battling Stomach Cancer: Fans Pay Tribute [Video]
When the news broke that Jimmy Snuka, a WWE Hall of Famer, was battling stomach cancer, fans immediately took to Twitter to pay tribute and offer support to Snuka. Twitter is littered with words of encouragement and fond memories of Jimmy.
As previously reported by the Inquisitr, Jimmy Snuka revealed in an interview that he had part of his stomach and lymph nodes removed as part of his cancer treatment, reports TMZ. Snuka still has a long road ahead of him, according to his wife, but “the doctors said [Jimmy] did very well. They’re very happy with the outcome.”
Snuka’s wife continued, “We all know how strong Jimmy is, and Jimmy can take a beating….He also wants to let his fans know that he’s not done yet.”
The news that Jimmy Snuka has cancer comes on the heels of another loss in the wrestling community, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, and fans expressed their concern for Snuka on social media, hoping that they won’t have to weather yet another death. According to TMZ, Piper, another wrestling icon, died at 61 from an apparent heart attack. Piper was one of the biggest stars in the WWE during the 1980s, squaring off against famous opponents such as Hulk Hogan and Mr. T.
“I am devastated at this news. Rod was a good friend as well as a client and one of the most generous, sincere and authentic people I have ever known. This is a true loss to us all,” Pipers manager told TMZ.
Similarly, wrestling fans have rallied around Jimmy Snuka and have taken to Twitter to offer support. “First Dusty, then Roddy Piper, now Jimmy Snuka has cancer and Jerry Lynn needs neck surgery it’s been a bad few months for wrestling fans,” wrote one distraught fan, while another offered, “Saddened to hear that #JimmySnuka has been diagnosed with stomach cancer. Praying for his health and a positive recovery.”
Other fans shared stories about many of Jimmy’s antics in the 70’s and 80’s during his heyday. “I will never forget the coconut shot to Jimmy Snuka’s head. It was a good moment. #ThankYouPiper,” shared one user.
According to The Bleacher Report, the wife of Jimmy Snuka said that “doctors believe they removed all of the cancer from his stomach.” Snuka was released from the hospital July 31st and is recovering at home. Snuka was officially inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1996 and last wrestled in 2008, although he continued to make appearances for the organization until 2014.
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