R.I.P. Bray Wyatt: Former WWE Champion Dead at 36

By Alex Vena
Published Aug. 25, 2023, 10:36 a.m. ET

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Bray Wyatt, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) star, died on Thursday (Aug. 24), People reports. He was 36. No details have been disclosed surrounding the cause of his death.

The wrestling promotion company released a statement on Thursday to confirm Wyatt’s passing:

“WWE is saddened to learn that Windham Rotunda, also known as Bray Wyatt, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 24, at age 36. Known for his captivating performances and incredible in-ring presence, Wyatt was a defining Superstar of his generation and accomplished many feats in WWE, including becoming WWE Champion in 2017.”

WWE also mourned the loss of Wyatt on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter), saying that the company “extends its condolences to Rotunda’s family, friends and fans.”

According to USA Today, Wyatt was launched to stardom within the WWE, alongside former wrestling tag teammates Luke Harper and Erick Rowan, by becoming the leader of the Wyatt family.

John Cena reportedly deemed his Firefly Funhouse match with Wyatt, which took place during the 2020 WrestleMania 36, as the “most cherished feud” of his career, per Wrestle Ops.

Former WWE star Dwayne “The Rock Johnson honored Wyatt on X last night, expressing that he’s “heartbroken over the news of Bray Wyatt’s passing.”

He continued, “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 world of pro wrestling.”

He also added that he’s still processing losing the goat, Terry Funk,” who passed away on Wednesday (Aug. 23) at age 79.

“My love, light, strength & mana to the Rotunda family and Funk family during this tough, heartbreaking time. As always, ‘thank you for the house’ #ohana.”