Three-time WWE World Champion Bray Wyatt, born Windham Rotunda, has tragically passed away at 36. His unexpected death has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, with many figures offering their condolences.
Wyatt had been facing an undisclosed health issue since February, leading him to step back from the ring. However, the exact cause of his death, described as sudden by his family, came as a surprise.
WWE content officer Triple H, also known as Paul Levesque, broke the sad news on social media. He wrote, “Windham Rotunda, fondly known as Bray Wyatt, unexpectedly passed earlier today. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express his grief. Johnson conveyed his deep respect and admiration for Wyatt, stating he was “heartbroken” and celebrated Wyatt’s unique contributions to WWE.
Veteran WWE commentator Mick Foley acknowledged Wyatt’s unparalleled vision and charisma, calling him “one of the most compelling presences wrestling has ever witnessed.”
Hailing from a lineage of wrestling greats, Wyatt’s family includes the legendary Mike Rotunda, known for his IRS persona, and younger brother Bo Dallas. Wyatt, a native of Brooksville, Florida, excelled as a state wrestling champion during his high school years and subsequently earned a football scholarship to Troy University. Opting to follow in his family’s footsteps, he embarked on a professional wrestling career in 2009.
Throughout his illustrious career, Wyatt showcased his talents under various monikers, including Husky Harris and The Fiend. Most notably, as Bray Wyatt, he took on the role of a cult leader in the Wyatt family faction, alongside Erick Rowan, Braun Strowman, and the late Luke Harper.
In 2021, after parting ways with WWE, Wyatt made a notable return at the Extreme Rules event, introducing fans to a fresh character iteration.
Wyatt’s return to WWE was on the horizon, as noted by Wrestling News, but his health challenges became an obstacle. Previously, Wyatt had candidly spoken about his mental health journey, reflecting on the challenges he faced both professionally and personally.
Wrestling reporter Sean Ross Sapp disclosed that Wyatt’s death resulted from a heart attack, intensified by prior Covid complications and underlying heart issues.
Wyatt leaves behind a loving family including his fiancée, former WWE announcer Joseann Offerman, their four children, brother Bo Dallas, and sister Mika. The wrestling world mourns the loss of a true icon, and thoughts are with his family during this tough time.