Welsh pro wrestler Adrian Street has died aged 82 (Picture: Dennis Hutchinson/Mirrorpix/Getty Images)

Welsh wrestling icon Adrian Street has died at the age of 82, his family has confirmed.

The wrestler’s death was announced on Monday (July 31) following his stay at Cwmbran’s Grange University Hospital.

He recently underwent brain surgery.

The sporting figure became famous in the 1970s and ’80s for his flamboyant appearance and courageous fighting style.

In fact, he had more than 12,000 fights throughout his career.

Most famously, in 1971 he beat Jimmy Savile, quite literally leaving him black and blue.

Paying tribute to the late star, his wife Linda described the real person behind his wrestling persona as ‘the kindest, most loving man you could ever meet.’

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

For more stories like this, check our entertainment page.

Follow Metro.co.uk Entertainment on Twitter and Facebook for the latest celeb and entertainment updates. You can now also get Metro.co.uk articles sent straight to your device. Sign up for our daily push alerts here.

He had a fight with Savile in 1971.