An iconic wrestler and WWE star has passed away at the age of 54.
Darren Drozdov was an NFL player turned wrestler who was notoriously paralyzed in the ring in 1999, one year after trading his professional football career for wrestling.
Before he joined the world of wrestling, Drozdov played for high-profile NFL clubs including the Broncos, Eagles, and Jets.
Darren’s premature passing was announced by his family who confirmed that he died of natural causes while expressing the “deep sense of loss” they are feeling during this tragic time.
“We are sad to share our beloved Darren passed away this morning of natural causes. There are no words to convey the deep sense of loss and sadness we are feeling right now,” the family’s statement read.
“We lived this journey with him over the past 24 years. We were always there through the good times and the bad, and provided him with our unconditional love.
“We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to everyone. All of his fans, teammates, colleagues, and friends for all the love and support he received over the years. You all gave him meaning, purpose and something to live for. He loved each and every one of you and cherished the conversations, notes and letters he received.”
The heartbreaking statement went on to the WWE for supporting Darren and the family for the past 24 years after he suffered a life-changing neck injury in the ring.
Drozdov retired from WWE in 1998, a year after he made his debut, after he was left paralyzed when D-Lo Brown accidentally landed on his back during an attempted running powerbomb for the SmackDown TV bout.
Previously, in 2014, the former wrestler revealed he never held any grudge against his colleague because he knew the risks associated with the sport.
“I have no hard feelings toward D’Lo because s**t happens and everyone who gets involved in athletics, including WWE, knows the risks that exist. It was an accident,” he told Jim Ross.
Following the WWE icon’s tragic death, fellow wrestlers paid their tributes to the 54-year-old and voiced their sympathy for his family.
Leading the tributes, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson said: “Man I’m so sorry to hear one of our ring brothers has passed away. Darren Drozdov aka Droz. We wrestled on a lot of cards together. Such an awesome dude. Great personality and great wrestling talent. We always talked about football and fishing. Sending love, strength, mana and light to his family. RIP brother.”
Mikey Whipwreck added: “Sad to hear about Darren Drozdov’s passing. We mostly lost touch after he left ECW but we had a lot of laughs and good times. Rest in Peace Darren.”
The official WWE Twitter account posted: “WWE is saddened to learn that Darren Drozdov passed away on Friday, June 30, at age 54. WWE extends its condolences to Darren Drozdov’s family, friends and fans.”
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