Former WWE and NFL star Darren Drozdov has died at the age of 54.
Drozdov, who went by the ring name “Droz,” wrestled in the WWE in the late 1990s, nose tackled in the NFL, and appeared in six games for the Broncos in 1993.
In 1999, he was powerbombed in the WWE ring and became a quadriplegic.
“We are saddened to hear that our beloved Darren passed away this morning of natural causes. There are no words to convey the deep sense of loss and grief we are feeling right now,” Drozdov’s family said in a statement. rice field.
His family said he maintained a cheerful disposition despite the accident.
“Despite being immobilized from the neck down for the past 24 years, Dross maintained his championship mindset and lived each day to the fullest,” the statement continued.
“His own words sum up his relentless positivity in the midst of adversity: ‘There is always another day. Life isn’t over. I’ve learned to live again, and my life isn’t over yet.”
Tributes began pouring in after the news of the former wrestler’s death.
“I am very sorry to hear that one of our brothers in the ring has passed away. Darren Drozdov aka Droz” tweeted Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
“We fought together on many cards. Such a great guy. Great personality and great wrestling talent. We always talked about football and fishing. I gave my family love, strength, mana and light.” Rest in peace,” the former professional wrestler and American actor added.
“Very sad to hear of the death of Darren Drozdov today. Tell us about a man who was mistreated. Godspeed.” tweeted Dave Meltzer, longtime publisher of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
His family thanked fans, colleagues and WWE for their support in a statement.
“We have lived this journey with him for the past 24 years. continued the statement.
“To all his fans, teammates, colleagues and friends, thank you for all the love and support you have given him over the years. You have given him meaning, purpose and something to live for. I loved each and every one of you and cherished the conversations, notes and letters I received, his faith in humanity never wavered and for all the love you showed him he loved you too. Please know that you have returned.
“We also want to thank Darren for treating him like family and for making sure he always got the proper care and treatment he needed to maintain his condition over the past 24 years. I would also like to thank WWE for their support and for stepping up.”
The statement ended with a note about his selflessness and radiant love.
“He was a devoted son, brother and friend who always put others first, especially his family. He was kind, generous and always there for people.” has been our guiding light, illuminating our lives with boundless love and wonder,” he said in a statement.
“His smile was soothing. His warmth, love and laughter were contagious. We could always turn to him for wisdom and solace, but his absence made us feel so much better.” It leaves a huge hole in our family and our hearts, and everyone who knew Darren has become a better person because of it.
“He taught us a lot about how to look at life, how to put things in perspective, how to overcome adversity, and how to show compassion to others. I didn’t want him to be sad, and I wanted this to be a celebration of my life, remembered for all the great things he did, the fun, the laughter, and the wonderful memories he shared with everyone.”
