Paul the Octopus is Dead: The Oracle Octopus Dies in His Sleep

by Amy Judd | October 26, 2010 at 07:16 am

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Paul the Oracle Octopus Who Correctly Predicted Eight World Cup Outcomes This Year Has Died

It is with sad news that we announce the passing of perhaps the most famous octopus in the world. Paul the oracle octopus died peacefully in his sleep according to staff at the German aquarium where he lived.

"Management and staff at the Oberhausen Sea Life Centre were devastated to discover that oracle octopus Paul, who achieved global renown during the recent World Cup, had passed away overnight," the aquarium said in a statement.

Paul shot to worldwide fame during the FIFA 2010 World Cup when he correctly predicted the outcome of eight games by picking a mollusk out of a box while the world watched to see where they should place their bets.

He even predicted Spain's win over the Netherlands in the final.

"His success made him almost a bigger story than the World Cup itself... We had all naturally grown very fond of him and he will be sorely missed."

He was offered many opportunities after the World Cup ended, including a home in Spain, and he weathered criticism during the competition when fans didn't like his predictions and started suggesting recipes for octopus.

Paul's body is now in cold storage while a suitable service is planned.

Sea Life manager Stefan Porwoll said:

"We may decide to give Paul his own small burial plot within our grounds and erect a modest permanent shrine," said Porwoll.

"While this may seem a curious thing to do for a sea creature, Paul achieved such popularity during his short life that it may be deemed the most appropriate course of action."