The Ultimate Warrior has died at the age of 54, WWE have confirmed.

The former wrestler, whose birth name was James Brian Hellwig, had appeared at WrestleMania 30 and Monday Night Raw, just before his death on Tuesday.

"WWE is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the most iconic WWE Superstars ever, The Ultimate Warrior," read a statement from the entertainment organisation.

"Warrior is survived by his wife Dana and his two daughters," it added.

The cause of his death has not yet been revealed.

Other high profile names have posted messages of condolence on social media sites.

"Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters," wrote Triple H on Twitter.

We are grateful that just days ago, Warrior had the opportunity to take his rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame WWE statement

Hulk Hogan, who was defeated by The Ultimate Warrier at WrestleMania VI, posted: "RIP WARRIOR. only love."

"Heartbroken. My sincerest condolences go out to The Warrior's family," said Daniel Bryan.

He added: "Seeing how much he loved his daughters and his wife this weekend makes it all the more heartbreaking.

"The Ultimate Warrior was my favourite as a kid, and getting to speak to him this weekend was one of my favourite moments. He was so nice to me."

The Ultimate Warrior started his World Wrestling Entertainment career in 1987 and soon became one of its most high profile stars.

"We are grateful that just days ago, Warrior had the opportunity to take his rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame and was also able to appear at WrestleMania 30 and Monday Night Raw to address his legions of fans," said the WWE statement.

"WWE sends its sincere condolences to Warrior's family, friends and fans," it added.

WrestleMania 30, which took place in New Orleans on Sunday night, saw the return of Hulk Hogan to presenting duties and the end of the Undertaker's winning streak.

According to official figures "attendance was a sold-out crowd of 75,167, with guests from all 50 [US] states and 37 countries".

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