Former wrestling superstar and fan favourite The Ultimate Warrior has died at the age of 54, less than a day after making his last television appearance.

The WWF legend, who was born James Brian Hellwig but changed his name to Warrior, is survived by his wife Dana and two daughters, the New York Post reports.

The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear but TMZ reports the former wrestler collapsed outside an Arizona hotel while walking to his car with his wife.

He was then reportedly taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The former champion's death was announced by World Wrestling Entertainment a short time ago and his passing has been mourned by his former rivals and current wrestlers.

April 09, 2014: The 2014 WWE Hall of Famer delighted wrestling fans when he appeared on Monday Night Raw to address his supporters.
"RIP WARRIOR. only love. HH," his rival Hulk Hogan wrote on Twitter.

Wrestler Triple H tweeted: "Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters."

On Saturday The Ultimate Warrior was inducted into the WWE's Hall of Fame.

The WWE has mourned his death in a statement.
"WWE is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the most iconic WWE Superstars ever, The Ultimate Warrior," the statement reads.

"Warrior began his WWE career in 1987 and quickly went on to become one of the biggest stars in WWE history. Warrior became WWE Champion at WrestleMania VI, defeating Hulk Hogan in an epic encounter. 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."