The wrestling world has been left in mourning following the death of Olympic legend Bobby Douglas, who has passed away at the age of 83.
The wrestling icon, who was a champion both on the mats and in the fight for racial equality within the sport, died on February 24.
West Liberty University, where Douglas first burst onto the national scene in the 1960s, confirmed the news of his passing in a heartbreaking statement.
West Liberty Athletic Director Brad Forshey said: ‘West Liberty University mourns the passing of one of our most distinguished alumni and a true legend in the sport of wrestling, Bobby Douglas.
‘His impact on wrestling reaches far beyond championships and accolades, he shaped generations of athletes through his relentless pursuit of excellence, integrity, and discipline.’
Forshey continued: ‘Bobby’s legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of West Liberty, and we are incredibly proud to call him a Hilltopper.
Wrestling legend Bobby Douglas, who represented America at two Olympics, has died aged 83
Douglas made history in 1964 as the first Black wrestler to compete for the US in the Olympics
‘On behalf of Hilltopper Athletics, we extend our deepest condolences to the Douglas family and to the countless athletes and coaches whose lives he touched.’
The Athletic Director concluded: ‘His influence will continue to inspire our student-athletes for years to come.’
Born in 1942, Douglas turned a fledgling program at West Liberty University into a national powerhouse before becoming an icon in the wrestling world.
Douglas made history in 1964 as the first Black wrestler to compete for the United States in the Olympics, later captaining the 1968 US team.
He was also the first American wrestler, of any race, to place in the top two at the World Championships, reaching the feat back in 1966.
After retiring from the mat, he transitioned into coaching and became one of only four collegiate coaches to surpass 400 dual meet victories. Overall, he wrestled or coached in six Olympic Games.
In 1987, Douglas became the first Black athlete to be inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Douglas, pictured alongside his wife Jackie, wrestled or coached in six Olympic Games
In tribute to Douglas, current West Liberty head coach Danny Irwin also shared how the Olympics icon impacted him both personally and professionally.
Irwin said: ‘Just a legend in the sport, was lucky enough to talk to him over the phone a handful of times in the last several years!
‘Got to see him do some clinics as a young coach that made a big difference for me in my career.
‘His wisdom & his love for the guys he coached was unmatched. Truly one of a kind person. My sincerest condolences to his wife Jackie and his family!’