Ric Flair in intensive care with heart problems after WWE legend suffers from 'tough medical issues'

WWE legend Ric Flair has been admitted to intensive care at an Atlanta hospital with “tough medical issues” after suffering from heart problems near his home in the city.

The 68-year-old, who has spent half a century in the wrestling business and became a leading name in the WWE, is being treated for a serious illness.

The seriousness of Flair’s condition was initially downplayed over the weekend after he was admitted to hospital, but Melina Morris Zanoni, the CEO of Legacy Talent LLC who represent Flair, confirmed on Monday that the wrestling veteran is “dealing with some tough medical issues” and “needs prayers and positive energy”.

Zanoni confirmed that Flair had been admitted to hospital on Saturday for “routine monitoring”, but later confirmed that the situation was more serious than originally reported.

WWE agent and producer Michael P S Hayes confirmed on social media that he went to see Flair on Sunday and added that he “can assure that he needs everyone’s prayers and positive vibes”.

Flair, also known as 'The Nature Boy', is one of the most iconic wrestlers to have graced the WWE, with his trademark “Woooo!” chant repeated by fans across the globe even when he is not attending events, so much so that the crowd will shout it whenever another wrestler whips someone across the chest as Flair did during his on-ring career.

During his wrestling career, Flair worked for leading brands such as the WWE, WCW and TNA, as well as the NWA and AWA.

The American has occasionally returned to the WWE in guest appearances since his retirement in December 2012 that capped a 40-year professional career, in which he is recognised by the WWE as a 16-time world champion, winning eight NWA World Heavyweight Championships, six WCW World Heavyweight Championships and two WWE Championships.

His daughter, Charlotte Flair, is currently one of the WWE’s leading wrestlers and has adopted her father’s chant as her own.