World WWE champion Bray Wyatt passes away, WWE mourns

CONNECTICUT: Former World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) champion Bray Wyatt tragically passed away at the age of 36.

WWE’s Chief Content Officer and Head of Creative Paul “Triple H” Levesque broke the tragic news via social media on Thursday. Triple H said that he received the heartbreaking call from WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda, Wyatt’s father, who shared the unexpected demise of their cherished WWE family member.

In his statement, Triple H wrote, “Our thoughts are with his family, and we ask that everyone respect their privacy at this time.” The cause of death has not been disclosed as of now.

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. Our thoughts are with his family and we ask that everyone respect their…

— Triple H (@TripleH) August 24, 2023

Born into a lineage deeply rooted in professional wrestling, Wyatt, referred to as Windham Rotunda at birth, was renowned for his innovative personas. He commenced his journey with WWE’s developmental program in 2010 under the moniker Husky Harris. His involvement with the Nexus faction led to a memorable rivalry with John Cena, and he later emerged as the enigmatic leader of the rural-dwelling Wyatt Family.

Read More: WWE Hall of Famer & hardcore wrestling icon Terry Funk passes away

Moreover, he showcased his versatility by adopting the kid-friendly character known as The Fiend. He won the WWE Universal Championship twice, clinched the WWE Championship, and alongside Matt Hardy, held the Raw Tag Team Championship during his impressive career

He enjoyed immense popularity among fans and reportedly held the distinction of being WWE’s leading merchandise seller the previous year. Despite his prominence, he spent a significant portion of 2023 away from the squared circle due to speculations of health-related constraints. Reports emerged that Bray Wyatt was grappling with a “life-threatening illness,” with Fightful Select disclosing his impending WWE comeback earlier this month.

Bray  Wyatt is survived by his fiancée, former WWE ring announcer JoJo Offerman, their two children, and two children from a previous marriage

WWE mourned

Many wrestlers from the wrestling fraternity expressed their shock and grief over the devastating news with some of them showed their respect for the celebrated wrestler.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, a prominent figure in the industry, expressed his heartbreak over the news and lauded Wyatt’s distinct character and connection with the WWE universe.

Im 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… pic.twitter.com/i9zlbJIOL3

— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) August 24, 2023

John Cena, a longtime rival of Wyatt’s, also shared his sentiments, highlighting the positive impact Wyatt had on his own career.

Devastated by the news of the passing of Windham Rotunda. My heart goes out to the entire Rotunda family. Windham brought the best out of me in so many ways. I’m forever grateful for the moments we shared. A sad day for all those he reached around the world. RIP.

— John Cena (@JohnCena) August 25, 2023

Matt Hardy also expressed his deep shock.

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. pic.twitter.com/AVNuOTjdsx

— MATT HARDY (@MATTHARDYBRAND) August 24, 2023

American professional wrestler Dean “Mojo” Muhtadi admired the late wrestler and expressed his sorrow through X.

Everyone knows that Bray Wyatt was one of the greatest, most original, creative, and captivating performers this business has ever seen. But even Bray Wyatt couldn’t hold a candle to Windham Rotunda. I love you brother. I’ll see you again so we can go dip our toes in the creek!

— Dean “Mojo” Muhtadi (@MojoMuhtadi) August 25, 2023

Meanwhile, Sami Zayn also expressed his struggle with Wyatt’s sudden death.

I have a hard time accepting death. Denial is strong. I am just shocked and I really can’t believe it.
RIP Windham Rotunda, I’m grateful to have shared some good times with you.

— Sami Zayn (@SamiZayn) August 25, 2023