Last week, World Wrestling Entertainment was saddened to learn about the death of Brian Adams, better known to our fans as Crush. A private memorial service will be held for Adams this week in Tampa, Fla.

Known for his formidable strength, the Hawaiian native made his first impact on the U.S. wrestling scene in the late 1980s with the NWA's Pacific Northwest organization.

When he debuted in WWE in summer of 1990, he joined Ax and Smash as the third member of the legendary tag team, Demolition. A change in the rules allowed the trio to hold the World Tag Team Championship, with any two of the three members defending the titles. The trio would lose the championships to The Hart Foundation due to interference from The Legion of Doom, sparking a fierce rivalry between them and Hawk & Animal.

After Demolition disbanded, Adams returned to WWE in summer of 1992 as the blond-haired Hawaiian powerhouse, "Kona Crush." He thrilled our fans with his ready smile and fearsome strength. However, a rivalry with Doink the Clown -- which culminated in one of the most unforgettable moments in WrestleMania history when Crush was attacked by two Doinks -- changed the Hawaiian's philosophy. He eventually fell under the guidance of Mr. Fuji and engaged in a fierce war with "Macho Man" Randy Savage, Their most memorable battle was WrestleMania X, where Savage defeated Crush in a Falls-Count-Anywhere Match.

After a short absence, attorney Clarence Mason brought Crush back to WWE in summer of 1996. Crush would join the Nation of Domination in 1997, and then formed the Disciples of Apocalypse biker gang with Chainz, Skull and 8-Ball later that year.

Early in 1998, Adams joined World Championship Wrestling and became part of the New World Order, using his own name. He later would go on to team with Bryan Clarke as KroniK and win the WCW Tag Team Championship twice. After WCW folded, KroniK would have a short-lived run in WWE in 2001, fighting with Kane & Undertaker.

After leaving WWE in late 2001, Adams competed in Japan and then attempted a career in boxing. After suffering a shoulder injury while training for his first professional bout, Adams called off his boxing efforts and returned to Japan to compete.

Adams wrestled his last match in January 2003, suffering a spinal injury that forced him into retirement. Whether he was beloved or jeered, Adams made a lasting impact on WWE and he will be missed by Superstars and our fans.

A memorial fund has been set up in Adams' memory. To honor Adams, you can send contributions to:

Brian Adams Memorial and Family Fund

Bank of America

4918 Anniston Circle

Tampa, FL 33647

Read more on Superstars' reaction to Adams' death ...