World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has thrilled fans for decades with unforgettable characters, fierce rivalries, and emotional moments. However, behind the bodyslams and WrestleMania moments lies the harsh reality of the business, as many icons have passed away too soon.
While a few wrestlers have lived beyond the age of 80, many legends of the squared circle have left us early.
In this article, we will look at five former WWE wrestlers who left us too soon, each leaving behind a unique legacy.
Hulk Hogan (1953-2025)
The 13-time champion died last week from cardiac arrest. Emergency responders were dispatched to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, after a 911 call reported a cardiac emergency. He was treated at the scene by Clearwater Fire & Rescue and transported to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 11:11.
Former WWE wrestlers who died too soon
Scott Hall (1958–2022)
Known as “Razor Ramon” in WWE and a founding member of the nWo in WCW, Scott Hall redefined cool in wrestling. After a long battle with addiction, Hall passed away in March 2022 due to complications from hip surgery that led to multiple heart attacks. He was 63.
Roddy Piper (1954–2015)
A master of the mic and one of WWE’s greatest villains, Roddy Piper brought unpredictability and intensity to every feud. His infamous “Piper’s Pit” segment set a standard for wrestling interviews. Piper died suddenly from a heart attack in July 2015 at the age of 61. Despite being a heel for most of his career, Piper was deeply respected by fans and peers. His legacy continues through his children, including MMA fighter Teal Piper.
Matt “Rosie” Anoa’i (1970–2017)
Part of the legendary Anoa’i wrestling family, Rosie teamed with Jamal in 3-Minute Warning before later forming a superhero-themed tag team with The Hurricane. Rosie, who was the older brother of Roman Reigns, died from congestive heart failure in April 2017 at the age of 47.
Bray Wyatt (1987–2023)
Windham Rotunda, best known as Bray Wyatt, was a creative genius and three-time world champion. His eerie promos and reinvention as “The Fiend” made him a modern-day icon. After battling heart issues exacerbated by COVID-19 complications, Wyatt died in August 2023 at just 36 years old.
Which death touched you the most?
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