A WWE star passed away suddenly from a suspected heart attack months after battling a life-threatening illness.
36-year-old Bray Wyatt was a 3-time WWE world champion who took a long break from the ring due to an illness after his win against LA Knight back in January.
According to the reports, Wyatt was now getting ready for a comeback after getting a medical clearance more than half a year following his heart complications brought on by COVID-19.
While Wyatt’s recovery seemed great and everything pointed at his return to the ring, the iconic wrestler died suddenly from what is believed to be a heart attack.
“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 – also known as Bray Wyatt – unexpectedly passed earlier today,” WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H announced.
“Our thoughts are with his family and we ask that everyone respect their privacy at this time.”
Meanwhile, wrestling reporter Sean Ross Sapp claimed that Wyatt earlier this year contracted Covid-19 which resulted in a series of health complications and possibly the wrestler’s premature death.
“I was given permission to reveal that earlier this year Windham Rotunda (Bray Wyatt) got COVID that exacerbated a heart issues. There was a lot of positive progress towards a return and his recovery,” he said.
“Unfortunately today he suffered a heart attack and passed away.”
Following the tragic announcements, dozens of WWE icons spoke out to pay the man their respects. Among them was former wrestler and Hollywood A-lister Dwayne Johnson who wrote:
“I’m heartbroken over the news of Bray Wyatt’s passing. Always had tremendous respect and love for him and the Rotunda family. Loved his presence, promos, in ring work and connection with @wwe universe.
“Very unique, cool and rare character, which is hard to create in our crazy world of pro wrestling. Still processing losing the goat, Terry Funk, yesterday and now Bray today.”
Tag team icon Matt Hardy added: “Absolutely shattered to learn that my friend, Windham Rotunda, has passed away. It’s devastating to think he left us at only 36 years young. My condolences go out to his family, wife & children. I’m so sorry, my compeer. Miss you already.”
Issuing a lengthy statement was also WWE. The organization recalled the young man’s achievements and career saying: “WWE is saddened to learn that Windham Rotunda, also known as Bray Wyatt, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 24, at age 36.
“Known for his captivating performances and incredible in-ring presence, Wyatt was a defining Superstar of his generation and accomplished many feats in WWE, including becoming WWE Champion in 2017.
“From his leadership of The Wyatt Family alongside Luke Harper, Erick Rowan, and Braun Strowman to his enthralling time as ‘The Fiend,’ Wyatt embarked on an incredible career and saw several iconic rivalries with Superstars such as John Cena, Randy Orton and The Undertaker.
WWE extends its condolences to Rotunda’s family, friends and fans.”
Our thoughts are with Bray’s loved ones during this challenging time.