Gone too soon: Wrestling legend dies just weeks after final match
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The world of professional wrestling is mourning the loss of one of its most daring and influential figures.
Terry Brunk, known to millions as Sabu, passed away at the age of 60—just weeks after stepping into the ring for what would be his final match.
For fans of wrestling’s golden eras and anyone who appreciates the spirit of reinvention, Sabu’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and a relentless drive to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
The Man Behind the Mayhem
Born into a wrestling family, Sabu was practically destined for the squared circle.
Trained by his uncle, the legendary Ed “The Sheik” Farhat, Sabu quickly made a name for himself as a trailblazer in the world of hardcore wrestling.
Known as “The Human Highlight Reel”, Sabu was famous (and sometimes infamous) for his fearless, high-flying stunts and willingness to put his body on the line for the sake of entertainment. He was said to “cut his teeth” in Japanese matches before reaching the ECW.
Whether it was leaping off the top rope through a table, or wrestling in matches where the ropes were replaced with barbed wire, Sabu’s style was as extreme as it gets.
He famously once shredded his bicep on barbed wire, only to tape it up and finish the match.
On another occasion, he reportedly “reattached his jaw” and closed a wound with superglue—testaments to his grit and determination.
A Career of Firsts and Fierce Rivalries
Sabu’s career spanned decades and continents, but he’s perhaps best remembered for his time in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he helped define the promotion’s wild, anything-goes style.
Alongside fellow icon Rob Van Dam, Sabu formed one of wrestling’s most electrifying tag teams, delivering matches that are still talked about today.
His influence didn’t stop at ECW. Sabu also made waves in WWE, where he squared off against superstars like John Cena and Rey Mysterio in championship bouts that showcased his unique blend of athleticism and unpredictability.
WWE itself called him a “gamechanger” and an “extreme maniac”—high praise from the world’s biggest wrestling company.
A Legacy That Lives On
Sabu’s impact on professional wrestling can’t be overstated. He inspired a generation of wrestlers to take risks, innovate, and never settle for the ordinary.
His style paved the way for the high-octane, no-holds-barred matches that are now a staple of wrestling promotions around the globe.
Source: @AEW / X.
Tributes have poured in from across the wrestling world. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) released a heartfelt statement, saying, “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.”
Fellow wrestlers, including Francine, shared their grief and admiration on social media, with Francine writing, “My heart is broken. Rest in peace to my friend Sabu. I love you always.”
Source: WWE Vault / Youtube.
Wrestling Into His 60s: A Testament to Passion
Remarkably, Sabu was still wrestling as recently as last month, participating in his final match during WrestleMania weekend in Las Vegas.
He made what is believed to be his last public appearance at the Tri-State Wrestling Alliance reunion convention in Philadelphia just days before his passing. His enduring presence in the ring, even at 60, is a testament to his passion for the sport and his fans.
The Final Bell
As we say goodbye to Sabu, we remember a man who lived—and wrestled—on his own terms. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation, courage, and unforgettable moments.
The wrestling world is a little less extreme without him, but his influence will be felt for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Sabu. Thank you for the memories, the thrills, and the inspiration.
Did you ever watch Sabu in his prime? Do you have a favorite match or moment? Maybe you met him at a convention or have a story about how wrestling brought your family together. We’d love to hear your memories and reflections—share them in the comments below!
Terry Brunk, known to millions as Sabu, passed away at the age of 60—just weeks after stepping into the ring for what would be his final match.
For fans of wrestling’s golden eras and anyone who appreciates the spirit of reinvention, Sabu’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and a relentless drive to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
The Man Behind the Mayhem
Born into a wrestling family, Sabu was practically destined for the squared circle.
Trained by his uncle, the legendary Ed “The Sheik” Farhat, Sabu quickly made a name for himself as a trailblazer in the world of hardcore wrestling.
Known as “The Human Highlight Reel”, Sabu was famous (and sometimes infamous) for his fearless, high-flying stunts and willingness to put his body on the line for the sake of entertainment. He was said to “cut his teeth” in Japanese matches before reaching the ECW.
Whether it was leaping off the top rope through a table, or wrestling in matches where the ropes were replaced with barbed wire, Sabu’s style was as extreme as it gets.
Wrestling legend Terry Brunk, better known as Sabu, has died at the age of 60, just weeks after his final wrestling match. Image source: WWE Vault / Youtube.
He famously once shredded his bicep on barbed wire, only to tape it up and finish the match.
On another occasion, he reportedly “reattached his jaw” and closed a wound with superglue—testaments to his grit and determination.
A Career of Firsts and Fierce Rivalries
Sabu’s career spanned decades and continents, but he’s perhaps best remembered for his time in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he helped define the promotion’s wild, anything-goes style.
Alongside fellow icon Rob Van Dam, Sabu formed one of wrestling’s most electrifying tag teams, delivering matches that are still talked about today.
His influence didn’t stop at ECW. Sabu also made waves in WWE, where he squared off against superstars like John Cena and Rey Mysterio in championship bouts that showcased his unique blend of athleticism and unpredictability.
WWE itself called him a “gamechanger” and an “extreme maniac”—high praise from the world’s biggest wrestling company.
A Legacy That Lives On
Sabu’s impact on professional wrestling can’t be overstated. He inspired a generation of wrestlers to take risks, innovate, and never settle for the ordinary.
His style paved the way for the high-octane, no-holds-barred matches that are now a staple of wrestling promotions around the globe.
Source: @AEW / X.
Tributes have poured in from across the wrestling world. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) released a heartfelt statement, saying, “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.”
Fellow wrestlers, including Francine, shared their grief and admiration on social media, with Francine writing, “My heart is broken. Rest in peace to my friend Sabu. I love you always.”
Source: WWE Vault / Youtube.
Wrestling Into His 60s: A Testament to Passion
Remarkably, Sabu was still wrestling as recently as last month, participating in his final match during WrestleMania weekend in Las Vegas.
He made what is believed to be his last public appearance at the Tri-State Wrestling Alliance reunion convention in Philadelphia just days before his passing. His enduring presence in the ring, even at 60, is a testament to his passion for the sport and his fans.
The Final Bell
As we say goodbye to Sabu, we remember a man who lived—and wrestled—on his own terms. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation, courage, and unforgettable moments.
The wrestling world is a little less extreme without him, but his influence will be felt for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Sabu. Thank you for the memories, the thrills, and the inspiration.
Did you ever watch Sabu in his prime? Do you have a favorite match or moment? Maybe you met him at a convention or have a story about how wrestling brought your family together. We’d love to hear your memories and reflections—share them in the comments below!
