Remembering Sabu: The Icon Who Revolutionized Hardcore Wrestling at 60

Sabu, the legendary hardcore wrestler known as Terry Brunk, has passed away at 60. The announcement came from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) on Sunday, leaving fans and fellow wrestlers in shock.

WWE expressed their condolences, stating, "WWE is saddened to learn that Terry Brunk, known to wrestling fans as Sabu, has passed away." Similarly, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) honored him in a heartfelt social media post. They remarked on his daring style, saying, "Sabu gave everything to professional wrestling."

The details surrounding Sabu’s death remain unknown. He gained widespread recognition in the 1990s with Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he became a pioneer of hardcore wrestling. Sabu was famous for high-flying stunts, like jumping off chairs and smashing through tables—attributes he took from his uncle, Ed "The Sheik" Farhat.

In ECW, he faced off against notable wrestlers like Rob Van Dam, Mick Foley, and Taz, solidifying his reputation as a standout competitor. He was known for his unique, though sometimes chaotic, style that made him a fan favorite.

Sabu later joined WWE in 2006 as part of the revival of ECW and even participated in WrestleMania 23, battling alongside ECW legends in front of 80,000 fans in Detroit. His wrestling career extended internationally, with stints in New Japan Pro-Wrestling and AAA, and he continued to compete long after many of his peers had retired. His last match was on April 18, where he faced Joey Janela in an intense bout, ending in a dramatic table crash.

Wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer called him the "king of the death matches," noting his significant role in popularizing hardcore wrestling in America. "He was the godfather of it in every way," said Meltzer, highlighting Sabu’s impact.

Many wrestlers took to social media to share their memories. Taz expressed that Sabu’s death "breaks my heart" and credited Sabu for his own wrestling success. Matt Hardy pointed out that Sabu’s creativity with tables shaped modern wrestling, stating, "The fact that tables are commonly utilized in pro wrestling is because of Terry Brunk."

Sabu’s contributions to the wrestling world are undeniable. His fearless approach and boundary-pushing style inspired a new era of wrestling that many emulate today. Fans and wrestlers alike remember him not just as a competitor, but as a revolutionary figure in the sport.

For more on Sabu’s legacy and the evolution of hardcore wrestling, visit the official WWE website.

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