The professional wrestling world was hit with a horrible shock on Thursday with the news that Windham Rotunda, most commonly known as WWE’s Bray Wyatt, passed away at 36.
While he’d been out of action for a while, he was seen recently in the ring, competing in a match against LA Knight at January’s Royal Rumble event.
Rotunda’s WWE career started in Florida Championship Wrestling, which was, at the time, WWE’s primary developmental territory. Right around the same time that FCW rebranded as NXT, Rotunda became Bray Wyatt, one of the most unique characters WWE had produced in years. Eventually, Wyatt made his way to the main roster. There, he was a two-time WWE Universal Champion and one-time WWE Champion.
Despite passing away at the far-too-early age of 36, Rotunda made a massive impact in WWE and the wrestling world in general. And as news of his passing broke, several people in the wrestling world paid tribute to both the iconic character and the man who played him.
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
Very sorry to hear of Bray Wyatt’s passing. It’s very sad. Unfortunately, I never got to know this man, but watching him perform, you can instantly tell he was extremely talented & creative. And more importantly hearing how great of a person he was. My condolences to his family.… pic.twitter.com/rSsT4hi1Ej
— taz (@OfficialTAZ) August 24, 2023
I am sadden by the news 😞My condolences to the family of Windham Rotunda aka Bray Wyatt RIP I’m gonna miss you my friend ❤️ 💐 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/p44T8Hz9BL
— Ron Killings (@RonKillings) August 25, 2023
The world lost a good one today. Bray Wyatt’s story telling ability along with his unique creativity in the ring was a force that kept your eyes glued to the television screen. Windham Rotunda’s fun-loving, free spirit paired with his infectious laugh is what I will truly miss… pic.twitter.com/tV3NJCeVpY
— The Miz (@mikethemiz) August 25, 2023
Every time I was able to share a locker room with Bray Wyatt was a pleasure. Always willing to give advice or just shoot the breeze and tell fun stories on the road.
My and family and I send out our prayers to the Rotunda family
Rest In Peace Wyndham #BrayWyatt
— PRIME Alexander (@CedricAlexander) August 24, 2023
https://twitter.com/foleyispod/status/1694868924054053070
In Bray Wyatt’s last WWE press conference he spoke passionately about taking risks and doing it because he wanted to leave a legacy. 💔 he said that was the beautiful thing about pro wrestling that there was something for everyone 💔 pic.twitter.com/DJEDZ2c6z8
— Denise 'Hollywood' Salcedo (@_denisesalcedo) August 24, 2023
Heartbroken is an understatement to my feelings at the moment about this news. Windham was the consummate professional, the Ultimate Teammate and a Wonderful Father, Husband, Brother, Friend and son. Always brought smiles. Me and my Family send our Condolences & Support❤️🙏🏿 https://t.co/osbvNqvUkJ
— Titus O'Neil (@TitusONeilWWE) August 24, 2023
I’m trying to process this and can’t
Windham was a friend
I feel for his wife, his beautiful children, his parents, his brother, his sister and everyone else who knew what a incredible person he was.
— Corbin (@BaronCorbinWWE) August 24, 2023
I’m just in shock. Extremely heart broken And at a loss for words. What I can say is what an amazing human being Windham is. An Amazing & kind friend. one of the most creative minds to ever walk this earth. Windham, you’ve brought so much joy and happiness to everyone around you.… pic.twitter.com/QELzyKKkNI
— Lexi (Kaufman) Cabrera (@AlexaBliss_WWE) August 24, 2023
When Your Great Friend And Someone Your Son’s Age Dies Within 2 Days, It Really Makes Me Reflect & Think About Life! Don’t Take Any Second For Granted! Rest In Peace Terry Funk & Bray Wyatt! pic.twitter.com/U2FpzeibmY
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) August 24, 2023
The wrestling business was close to Rotunda for his entire life. He’s the grandson of Blackjack Mulligan, the son of Mike Rotunda (FKA, IRS in WWE), the nephew of Barry and Kendall Windham and the brother Taylor Rotunda, best known as Bo Dallas in WWE.
