Former WWE wrestler, manager and later television star "Luscious" Johnny Valiant has died.

The 71-year-old - whose real name was Thomas Sullivan - was hit by a pick-up truck while crossing a road in his hometown in Pennsylvania on Thursday.

He was pronounced dead at the hospital. Mr Valiant wrestled alongside his stage brother, Jimmy Valiant, in the 1970s.

WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer “Luscious” Johnny Valiant reportedly passed away this morning at the age of 71. https://t.co/vNfhyVo3Pb

— WWE (@WWE) April 5, 2018

After his career in the ring, he managed wrestlers such as Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake.

He later went on to star in such television series as The Sopranos and Law & Order.

According to local reports, Mr Valiant was hit as he ran across a road in North Hills, a suburb of Pittsburgh, in the early hours of Thursday. He was not at a crossing point.