Howard Finkel has passed away aged 69.

The legendary WWE announcer - who first joined the company when it was run by Vince McMahon Sr. in 1975 - has tragically died, the company has confirmed.

In a statement shared on Thursday (16.04.20), WWE said: ''WWE is saddened to learn that Howard Finkel has passed away at age 69...

''WWE extends its condolences to Finkel's family, friends and fans.''

'The Fink' is regarded as one of the greatest ring announcers in WWE history, having made his debut in 1977 and going on to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009.

Howard even stepped in between the ropes for the occasional match, including facing rival Harvey Wippleman in a Tuxedo Match on 'Raw' in 1995.

Three years later, he helped X-Pac shave Jeff Jarrett's head after a Hair vs. Hair bout at 'Summerslam'.

WWE added: ''In addition to his legendary tenure as a ring announcer, The Fink was an indispensable resource inside the WWE offices for his vast knowledge of sports-entertainment history.

''Well respected by current Superstars, WWE Legends and Hall of Famers, Finkel's encyclopedic memory and kindness made him beloved among his colleagues.''

Many of his colleagues and fans have already paid tribute including WWE boss Stephanie McMahon, who praised his ''iconic'' voice.

She tweeted: ''In what has already been a tough week for our @WWE family, today we lost our 1st ever employee and WWE Hall of Famer, @howardfinkel.

''Howard's voice is iconic & recognised by generations of fans. He will be missed.

''#RIPHowardFinkel Thank you for everything.''

Rival promotion IMPACT Wrestling also took to social media to remember one of the greats.

The company's official Twitter account posted: ''IMPACT Wrestling is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Howard Finkel. We send our condolences to his friends and family.''