Ex-WWE Star Darren Drozdov Lifeless At 54

Former WWE star Darren Drozdov — who was tragically paralyzed after struggling an damage throughout a match in 1999 — has died … the wrestling org. introduced Friday.

He was 54 years outdated.

“There are not any phrases to convey the deep sense of loss and unhappiness we’re feeling proper now,” Drozdov’s household mentioned in a press release. “We want to lengthen our deepest appreciation to everybody. All of his followers, teammates, colleagues, and pals for all of the love and help he acquired through the years.”

“You all gave him that means, objective and one thing to reside for,” the Drozdov household continued. “He cherished every one in every of you and cherished the conversations, notes and letters he acquired. His religion in humanity by no means faltered, so know that for all of the love you have proven him, he cherished you again.”

Drozdov’s household added that he handed away because of pure causes.

Drozdov was initially launched to the sports activities world via soccer … when he performed noseguard within the NFL for 3 seasons.

However, following the tip of his enjoying days, he discovered his true calling in wrestling … first showing within the ECW — earlier than debuting with the WWE in 1998.

Drozdov initially competed underneath the pseudonym “Puke” — a nickname he had beforehand been given for his affinity for throwing up throughout soccer video games — however, he later wrestled as “Droz” … gaining fame for the way in which he teamed up with the Highway Warriors.

Sadly, in Oct. 1999 — simply as his wrestling profession regarded poised to take off — he broke his neck in a match with D’Lo Brown … and was paralyzed from the neck down.

He ultimately gained motion in his arms and higher physique — however he would nonetheless require a wheelchair to get round for the remainder of his life. He did, although, stay steadfast that Brown was to not blame for the incident — and the 2 stayed pals through the years.

Following Drozdov’s passing Friday … Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson penned an emotional tribute to the wrestler, writing on his social media web page, “We wrestled on quite a lot of playing cards collectively. Such an superior dude.”

“Nice character and nice wrestling expertise,” he added. “We all the time talked about soccer and fishing. Sending love, power, mana and lightweight to his household. RIP brother.”