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via Imago

via Imago

The day starts in shock for the pro-wrestling and NFL community. A former World Wrestling Entertainment champion and third-generation wrestler has passed away at 36, as announced by the company. The company has announced the passing of a former World Wrestling Entertainment champion and a wrestler of the third generation, who was only 36 years old. The abruptness of the news leaves the entire WWE fanbase in a state of shock. This renowned WWE superstar, who had been absent from the scene for several months, had returned triumphantly at the Extreme Rules event the previous year.

Not too long ago, there was a building rivalry between this wrestler and Bobby Lashley, which was building up to an eagerly awaited match. However, this storyline was suddenly abandoned without any explanation. Subsequently, it came to light that the 36-year-old athlete had been grappling with a life-threatening illness.

Bray Wyatt passed away at 36

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Windham Rotunda, known by the ring moniker Bray Wyatt since 2012, has sadly departed at 36 years of age. The announcement was made through Twitter by Paul “Triple H” Levesque, the Chief Content Officer for World Wrestling Entertainment. Paul was informed about this heartbreaking news by Rotunda’s father. Wrestling icon Triple H posted the following message on Twitter: “Just received a call from WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda who informed us of the tragic news that our WWE family member for life Windham Rotunda….unexpectedly passed earlier today…we ask that everyone respect their privacy at this time.

Rotunda was with WWE from 2009 to 2021 before his release. A year later, he returned to Extreme Rules. He feuded with Bobby Lashley, but an undisclosed illness forced him off TV, endangering his career and life. Though recovery seemed promising by August 10, fate had other ideas.

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His life was tragically claimed by the life-threatening illness. Beyond his wrestling career, Wyatt’s legacy is also connected to two significant and emotionally resonant moments, with ties to the NFL as well.

Wyatt had a gridiron past?

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Before his nearly 15-year wrestling career, Rotunda shone in football. He gained recognition as a JUCO All-American at College of the Sequoias, excelling as an offensive lineman. He then played for Troy in 2007, two seasons with the Trojans. After 2008, he entered wrestling, debuting in 2009. The COS Giants Football team paid tribute, tweeting, “Rest In Peace to COS Football Alum Bray Wyatt. We send our deepest condolences to his family in this tough time. #ForeverGIANT

Beyond his wrestling and football connections, Rotunda was a devoted Las Vegas Raiders fan, often demonstrating his support for the Silver and Black via social media. Notably, he shared a strong bond with then-Raiders quarterback Derek Carr, their camaraderie often shining through in playful exchanges on social platforms. For instance, Carr once prompted his followers to list their top 5 WWE favorites, omitting Bray’s name. In response, Bray humorously commented with a simple “Bruh.”

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In another blow, WWE Hall of Famer Terry Funk also passed away this week. With Bray Wyatt’s sudden demise, the sports world mourns again.

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