Ozzy Osbourne, legendary vocalist for Black Sabbath and a groundbreaking figure in heavy metal, has died at age 76, just weeks after his farewell concert in Birmingham. Family members shared that Ozzy passed away on July 22, with loved ones at his side, following prolonged health struggles that included complications from Parkinson’s disease and spinal injuries.
Rising from humble beginnings in Aston, Birmingham, Ozzy’s career took him from Black Sabbath’s pioneering days in the 1970s to a globe-spanning solo run with albums like Blizzard of Ozz and hits such as “Crazy Train.” His life included infamous onstage antics, highly publicized battles with addiction, and a reinvention as a reality TV star with MTV’s The Osbournes. Osbourne’s stage presence and larger-than-life persona made him one of rock’s most recognizable and beloved icons.
Ozzy Osbourne’s history with WWF/E
Ozzy Osbourne’s cultural reach extended far beyond music, including several memorable appearances in the world of WWF/E:
WrestleMania 2 (1986): Ozzy made his WWF debut at the iconic WrestleMania 2, appearing in the corner of The British Bulldogs as they captured the WWF World Tag Team Championship from The Dream Team. His appearance at ringside helped spotlight pro wrestling’s expanding mainstream appeal.
RAW Guest Host (2009): Ozzy and wife Sharon Osbourne served as co-guest hosts of WWE RAW in November 2009. The duo delivered their unique brand of humor, presiding over a variety show-style program and interacting with both Superstars and the live audience.
WWE Hall of Fame (2021): Ozzy was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame (Celebrity Wing) as part of the 2021 class, honored for his contributions to wrestling entertainment and crossover influence. Accepting the recognition virtually, Ozzy expressed gratitude for his WWE connections and the fun he had with the company.
WWE Collaborations and Music: Several of Ozzy’s classics have been used as theme songs for WWE events, including “I Don’t Wanna Stop,” which served as the official theme for Judgment Day 2007. His music has been featured on entrance soundtracks and highlight packages for various programs.
Osbourne’s final public appearance was a milestone reunion with Black Sabbath in Birmingham, closing the curtain on a 50-year career that shaped the sound and style of heavy metal.
Ozzy will be remembered not only for his contribution to music but for embracing and influencing entertainment worlds well beyond the stage – including the WWE Universe.
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