Son of Legendary Florida Wrestling Promoter Commits Suicide

Added by DieHard Derek on October 19, 2012.

Michael Gossett, known better in the wrestling industry as Mike Graham, was found dead by his wife on Friday afternoon in Daytona Beach, Florida from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

The 61 year old former professional wrestler and son of legendary Florida wrestling promoter Eddie Graham had been in Daytona Beach to take part in the “Biketoberfest” activities.

Graham’s father, was an influential Florida wrestling promoter, who also committed suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot in 1985, following a lifelong battle with alcoholism.

World Wrestling Entertainment issued the following statement this afternoon via their website: “WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of Mike Graham, 61, son of legendary promoter Eddie Graham. While never under contract with WWE, he was part of our extended family. The sports-entertainment world lost a beloved member today. WWE extends its sincerest condolences to his family and friends.”

Graham was awarded Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s Rookie of the Year in 1972, and continued wrestling for various territorial promotions during the early 90′s. he continued his career as an agent and trainer through 2000, and inducted his late father into the WWE’s Hall of Fame in 2008. Graham also took part several recorded roundtable discussions for the WWE’s Legends of Wrestling show featured on their paid subscription OnDemand network.

Graham was born into the pro wrestling business and never shy’d away from speaking his mind while challenging the business. His colleagues took to Twitter today to remember his career and contributions to the business.

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