Former WWE wrestler The Dynamite Kid dies on his 60th birthday

The former British professional wrestler known as The Dynamite Kid died Wednesday, December 5 (December 6 AEST) on what was his 60th birthday.

A family member and WWE confirmed the sad news.

"WWE is saddened to learn that Thomas Billington, known to his fans as Dynamite Kid, has passed away at age 60," WWE said in a statement. A cause of death was not reported.

Billington garnered fame as one half of the pro wrestling duo known as The British Bulldogs with partner Davey Boy Smith. Smith's son, Davey Boy Smith Jr., also paid tribute to the athlete on Twitter, sharing a photo with Billington and a story about the last time they saw each other.

"It deeply saddens me to announce the passing of Tom Billington the 'Dynamite Kid,'" he began. "I was really happy and glad I got to see Dynamite one last time last June in the UK.  Dynamite was certainly an inspiration to myself and many others and really revolutionised."

Billington was born in Golborne, Lancashire, England, and pursued sports entertainment to escape a career as a coal miner.

"Although somewhat undersized, he possessed a ferocity and determination that earned him the nickname The Dynamite Kid," WWE said of Billington.

Billington cut his teeth at WWE Hall of Famer Stu Hart's Stampede Wrestling in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and later honed his wrestling skills in Japan.

He joined WWE with his cousin Davey Boy Smith in 1984, forming the popular tag team duo The British Bulldogs. There, they performed in iconic matches with fellow luminaries including Bret "Hit Man" Hart and Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart of The Hart Foundation. In 1986, The British Bulldogs won the Tag Team Titles at Wrestlemania 2 after defeating rivals Greg "The Hammer" Valentine and Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake.