Wrestling world pays tribute to former WWE star Darren Drozdov who died at age 54

Darren Drozdov (Source: Twitter)

The wrestling world paid rich tributes to former WWE star Darren Drozdov, who died at the age of 54 on Friday, June 30, 2023. The American wrestler, known professionally as Droz, who competed for WWE in the 1990s, died of natural causes. His career was cut short due to a paralysis-causing injury in October 1999.

"WWE is saddened to learn that Darren Drozdov passed away on Friday, June 30, at age 54. WWE extends its condolences to Darren Drozdov’s family, friends and fans," the official Twitter account of the company tweeted.

A 6'3" man with a solid physique and a weight of 245 pounds was also known as 'Puke'. He had a terrible ring accident while competing in 1999, fractured two vertebrae in his neck during a match against D'Lo Brown, and never walked again.

Drozdov had been paralyzed from the neck down for the past 24 years but maintained a positive mindset. “There is always another day. Just because I’m paralyzed and stuck in a wheelchair, doesn’t mean my life is over. I’ve learned to live again, and my life is far from over," he had earlier said.

He would not want anyone to be sad at this moment: WWE releases statement from Drozdov's family

WWE also released a statement from the family of Drozdov following his demise, where they thanked the company for the support and care for the wrestler. "Everyone who knew Darren was a better person because of it. He taught everyone so much about how to look at life: how to put things in perspective, how to overcome adversity, and how to show compassion for others," the statement read.

"He would not want anyone to be sad at this moment and would want to this to be a celebration of his life, to be remembered for all the great things that he accomplished, the fun, the laughter, the great memories he shared with everyone," it added.

Several wrestling legends, including The Rock, Matt Cardona, Matt Hardy, Taz, Bully Ray, and others, paid their respects on social media. "Saddened to hear about the passing of Darren Drozdov. Darren was a great guy who was always full of life & laughs. #RIP Droz," wrote Matt Hardy.

"Man I’m so sorry to hear one of our ring brothers has passed away. Darren Drozdov aka Droz. We wrestled on a lot of cards together. Such an awesome dude. Great personality and great wrestling talent. We always talked about football and fishing. Sending love, strength, mana and light to his family. RIP brother," The Rock tweeted.