In 2019, Kofi Kingston embarked on a journey to win the WWE Championship. Facing various obstacles and opponents along the way. The “Kofimania” storyline eventually culminated in a memorable moment at WrestleMania 35 when Kofi captured the WWE Championship on the Grandest stage. It was a moment of immense joy for the WWE universe, as Kingston achieved the prize after 11 years of dedication.
WWE Superstars look back at the joy of @TrueKofi’s WWE Title win at #WrestleMania 35 on the latest episode of #ThisisAwesome.
Streaming today exclusively on @peacock in the U.S. and @WWENetwork everywhere else. pic.twitter.com/Zvec69oZ2c
— WWE (@WWE) March 24, 2023
However, naturally, there were some people who were not too pleased with The New Day member becoming the WWE Champion. Former WWE Champion and legend, Billy Graham commented on Kofi being the champion. Graham competed in the WWE (then WWF) during the 1970s and early 1980s. He was known for his charismatic personality, muscular physique, and flamboyant ring attire.
After the memorable moment at Mania 35, Graham took to his social media to comment on Kofi winning the most important title in pro wrestling history. He referred to Kingston stating, “So my man, I urge you to start doing some steroids. And add about 50 pounds of solid muscle to your championship body. Vince won’t care, honestly. Actually, he would be quite pleased with the muscular transformation”.
Yes, he literally asked the WWE Champion to do steroids. Furthermore, Graham predicted that Kofi would be the longest-reigning WWE champion of the modern era. He further created a scenario where his New Day partners, Big E, and Xavier Woods, would eventually turn on him out of jealousy. Well, that was not the case, actually.
The legend also asked Kofi to study his old promos from WWE’s vast library so that he could be an entertainer along with a wrestler. He concluded by wishing Kingston luck for his run as a champ.
The legendary “Superstar” Billy Graham is no more
Unfortunately, the wrestling community will no longer listen to what Billy Graham has to say. He sadly passed away at the age of 79. Graham, whose real name is Eldridge Wayne Coleman. He was on life support for days prior to his death. WWE also acknowledged the passing of one of the company’s greats.
WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer “Superstar” Billy Graham has passed away. We extend our condolences to Graham’s family, friends, and fans.https://t.co/Qpykpjv616
— WWE (@WWE) May 18, 2023
The cause of death was revealed to be long-term health issues Graham was facing. He was diagnosed with third-stage liver disease and ‘cirrhosis’. Moreover, he was suffering from several other health issues as well. Meanwhile, Graham will forever be remembered for his considerable success in his WWE and wrestling careers.
He won the WWWF (now WWE) World Heavyweight Championship in 1977, defeating Bruno Sammartino. Graham held the title for nearly 10 months before losing it to Bob Backlund in 1978. In 2004, Billy Graham was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame to recognize his contributions to the industry.