Dennis Condrey, a foundational figure in professional wrestling known for his role in the original Midnight Express, has died at the age of 74, according to reports confirmed Friday.
Condrey, alongside “Beautiful” Bobby Eaton and manager Jim Cornette, formed the Midnight Express, a tag team widely regarded as pioneers of the genre. The team captivated audiences with their in-ring athleticism and charismatic presentation, becoming a mainstay in wrestling territories throughout the 1980s and 90s.
Debuting in 1973, Condrey competed across numerous prominent wrestling organizations, including the American Wrestling Association (AWA), the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), Georgia Championship Wrestling, Mid-South Wrestling, and Jim Crockett Promotions. He continued wrestling until his retirement in 2011.
News of Condrey’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from within the wrestling community. Professional wrestler Dax Harwood initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist Condrey’s wife, Theresa, with funeral expenses and related bills. Harwood described Condrey as not only a gifted performer but as well a “sweet, God-fearing man who LOVED his wife Theresa.”
“For years they brought excitement and entertainment to millions of people,” Harwood wrote of the Midnight Express. He explained that Theresa Condrey did not solicit financial assistance, but he sought her permission to launch the fundraiser “in his honor.” According to Harwood, she requested only “love in return” and welcomed donations from fans whose lives were touched by Condrey and his team.
Fightful reported its condolences to Condrey’s family, friends, and fans. Details regarding memorial services have not yet been announced.
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