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Tommy Savoldi, a beloved figure in professional wrestling and one of the most colorful personalities in the business, has passed away at the age of 85. Known as “The Mediator,” Savoldi’s career spanned decades, earning him respect as a referee, promoter, and all-around jack of all trades in the wrestling world.
The Savoldi family announced the sad news on Friday, sharing heartfelt words on Facebook:
“With the heaviest of hearts, it’s our misfortune to announce the passing of one of the greats, ‘The Mediator’ Tommy Savoldi. Tommy passed away at the age of 85, with his family in Parsippany, NJ.”
Tommy, the nephew of Angelo Savoldi and cousin to Mario and Jumpin’ Joe Savoldi, first made his mark as a referee during the WWWF and WWF eras, back when New York and New Jersey’s athletic commissions tightly regulated the sport. He later took on a variety of roles in his family’s ICW/IWCCW promotion, from refereeing and announcing to booking and talent relations.
In one of the most memorable moments of his career, Savoldi turned heel in 1988, helping Moondog Spike win the IWCCW title in a shocking betrayal of his cousin Joe. The incident earned him the moniker “The Mediator,” a nickname that stuck for the rest of his career.
Fans and colleagues remember Savoldi not just for his work in the ring but also for his larger-than-life personality. From pretending to be Jerry Lewis to get better hotel rates to dancing in the middle of the road during a road trip, his antics were the stuff of legend.
“Tommy was one of those great characters that can only exist in the wrestling business,” the Savoldi family shared. “Anyone who’s had the pleasure of knowing Tommy for more than 10 minutes has the craziest Tommy story you’ve ever heard.”
Brian Webster, the voice of ICW, paid tribute to his longtime friend:
“Tommy had a heart bigger than his home state of NJ along with a sense of humor to match. His zest for living life and having fun while getting business done was unmatched. Rest well, my dear friend, until we meet again.”
Beyond wrestling, Tommy was a devoted family man, deeply loved by his wife Fran, daughter Helen, and a large extended family.
On behalf of Ringside News, we extend our condolences to Tommy Savoldi’s family, friends, and fans.
What’s your favorite memory of Tommy Savoldi? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
November 29, 2024 6:05 pm
