The wrestling world mourned the loss of a beloved commentator on Friday.
Don West, who most notably did color commentary for TNA Wrestling in the mid-2000s, died of lymphoma. He was 59 years old.
Last June, West, who worked for NewsRadio 560 KPQ in Seattle, wrote a message to his fans about his lymphoma diagnosis. 18 months later and he, unfortunately, has passed on.
West was most known for his work as the color commentator for TNA Wrestling. He worked for TNA from the very beginning, as he debuted as color commentator on their debut show on June 19, 2002. West then went on to join Mike Tenay, formerly of WCW, as the lead voices for TNA Wrestling as they ascended into the wrestling landscape in the 2000s.
West’s style, often doused with emotion and high volume made him a beloved figure in the world of wrestling by fans and peers alike.
Tributes poured in after news of West’s passing broke. Tenay, his former commentator, offered a touching tribute. Tenay said, “Just heard from wife Terry that our brother Don West will be spending New Year’s 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.”
https://twitter.com/RealMikeTenay/status/1608890721138012166
Wrestling legend, Hall of Famer, and former U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle also offered condolences. Angle tweeted, “Sorry to hear about the passing of Impact Wrestling Commentator Don West. Don was an incredible man with so much energy. My prayers go to his family.”
WWE lead voice Michael Cole offered condolences to West and his family on the Friday Night Smackdown broadcast. Cole said in a classy on-air tribute, “I would like to offer my condolences tonight to wrestling commentator Don West’s family. Don passed away earlier today. A man who made a true impact on the wrestling business. Godspeed to Mr. West.”
https://twitter.com/TranquiloSZN/status/1608997433568292871
Finally, Jeff Jarrett, who headed TNA for several years, left a three-tweet tribute to West. Jarrett said, “We reminisced, laughed, and I go the final opportunity to tell him I loved him and that I will see him again one day!” after he mentioned a recent meeting he had with West before he passed.