'Rowdy' Roddy Piper: Tributes paid to wrestling legend who has died aged 61

The wrestling performer was one of the best known heels, or villains, in the industry

Actor Roddy Piper attends the world premiere of 'The Death of 'Superman Lives': What Happened?' at the Egyptian Theatre on April 30, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images for TDOSLWH)

Tributes have been paid to the wrestling legend 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper who has died aged 61.

The champion wrestler was one of the sport's best known heels, or villains, and was renowned for his intense 'Piper's pit' segments.

Although Canadian, Piper wore a kilt and carried bagpipes into the ring due to his professed Scottish heritage.

Piper was diagnosed with Hodkins Lymphoma in 2006 but declared free of the cancer just 9 months ago.

Fans and fellow athletes have paid tributes to Piper, taking to Twitter to share their stories of him and express their loss.

Mr T. wrote: "RIP Rowdy Roddy Piper! What a competitor?! I was honored to be your opponent in the first Wrestlemania. Bless you my brother."

Former world heavyweight champion Ric Flair wrote: "I'll miss you Rowdy Roddy Pipper. The world will never be as Rowdy without you."

He is survived by his wife Kitty and their four children.