Just three weeks after his retirement match, wrestling legend and former ECW champion Sabu, 60, who’s real name was Terry Brunk, has died, All Elite Wrestling and WWE announced Sunday.
A cause or time of Sabu’s death has not been disclosed. Just weeks ago, Sabu participated in the final match of his career, defeating GCW star Joey Janela in the main event of the ninth annual Joey Janela’s Spring Break.
AEW and the wrestling world mourns the passing of Sabu.
From barbed wire battles to unforgettable high-risk moments, Sabu gave everything to professional wrestling.
Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans. pic.twitter.com/JpgbYj2KKl
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) May 11, 2025
Sabu was known as a fearless wrestler, willing to perform high-risk maneuvers regularly in order to entertain his fans. AEW mentioned that Sabu was no stranger to such performances, pointing out his familiarity with “barbed wire battles.” Sabu was considered a pioneer of the hardcore wrestling style.
Sabu was a well-respected wrestler who participated in multiple organizations throughout his career including the ECW, WCW, and WWE.
Sabu’s wrestling achievements
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Two-time World Heavyweight Champion
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FTW Heavyweight Champion
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World Television Champion
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Three-time World Tag Team Champion
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ECW Triple Crown Champion
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NWA World Heavyweight Champion
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Insane Wrestling Federation Heavyweight Champion
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XPW World Heavyweight Champion
Sabu also made an appearance during WrestleMania 23, as a part of the ECW Originals tag team that defeated The New Breed. Sabu left WWE soon after.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Sabu, wrestling legend, dead at 60, weeks after retirement fight
