'Macho Man' Randy Savage dies in Pinellas car wreck

Once known for his spectacular shades, bulging biceps and blustering bloviation, former professional wrestler "Macho Man" Randy Savage was killed in a car wreck Friday when he crashed head-on into a tree on Park Boulevard. He was 58 years old.

During a ring career that spanned more than two decades, the six-time World Wrestling Federation heavyweight champion strutted his stuff in gaudy costumes cut to show off his muscles and frame his championship belt. Savage had a high-volume swaggering delivery, daring opponents to get in his way.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Savage, whose real name was Randy Poffo, was driving a 2009 Jeep Wrangler west on Park Boulevard when, just west of 113th Street, he lost control of the vehicle.

The Wrangler went over the median, across the eastbound lanes and hopped the curb before crashing head-on into the tree at about 9:25 a.m. Savage was taken to Largo Medical Center, where he died, according to the FHP report.

"I am the greatest intercontinental champion that ever lived," he once said, "and I am the greatest professional wrestler that ever lived."