Hardcore Pro Wrestling Legend Sabu Dies at 60

The professional wrestling world is mourning the loss of Terry Brunk, better known by his ring name Sabu, who passed away on May 11, 2025, at the age of 60. Renowned for his high-risk, hardcore wrestling style, Sabu was a pivotal figure in shaping the extreme wrestling scene of the 1990s and beyond.

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🧬A Legacy Forged in Blood and Barbed Wire

Trained by his uncle, the legendary Ed “The Sheik” Farhat, Sabu debuted in 1985 and quickly became synonymous with the hardcore wrestling genre. His tenure with Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) from 1993 to 2000 solidified his status as a trailblazer, earning him the moniker “the suicidal, homicidal, genocidal, death-defying maniac.”([Wikipedia][1], [New York Post][2])

Sabu’s wrestling style was characterized by daring aerial maneuvers and the use of weapons like tables, chairs, and barbed wire. Notable signature moves included the Triple Jump Moonsault, Arabian Facebuster, and Arabian Skullcrusher. His willingness to perform through injuries and push physical limits made him a fan favorite and a respected figure among peers.([The Sun][3])

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🏆 Championships and Career Highlights

ECW World Heavyweight Champion (2 times)
NWA World Heavyweight Champion (1 time)
ECW World Television Champion
ECW World Tag Team Champion (3 times)

Beyond ECW, Sabu competed in various promotions, including WWE, TNA, WCW, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and AAA. In WWE, he was part of the ECW Originals team that triumphed over The New Breed at WrestleMania 23 in 2007. He also made appearances in AEW, serving as a special enforcer in a 2023 match between Adam Cole and Chris Jericho.([New York Post][2], [ESPN.com][4])

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🎤 Final Match and Sudden Passing

Sabu’s final match occurred on April 18, 2025, during GCW’s WrestleMania weekend event, where he faced Joey Janela. Less than a month later, his sudden death shocked the wrestling community. As of now, the cause of death has not been disclosed.([The Sun][3])

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🌍 Tributes from the Wrestling World

The announcement of Sabu’s passing elicited an outpouring of tributes from fellow wrestlers and organizations:([The Sun][3])

AEW: “From barbed wire battles to unforgettable high-risk moments, Sabu gave everything to professional wrestling. Our thoughts are with his family, his … , and his fans.” ([The Sun][3])

WWE: Described Sabu as “a pioneer of hardcore … ” and extended condolences to his family, friends, and fans. ([New York Post][2])

Taz: “I would not have had the career … … if it wasn’t for Sabu … … I’m gonna miss him immensely.” ([New York Post][2])

Rob Van Dam: Posted a simple finger-pointing-up emoji, a nod to Sabu … . ([Hindustan Times][5])

Francine: “My heart is broken. Rest in peace to my friend Sabu. I love you always.” ([Hindustan Times][5])

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🕊️ Remembering a Hardcore Icon

Sabu’s influence on professional wrestling is indelible. His fearless approach and innovative style inspired countless wrestlers and captivated fans worldwide. As the wrestling community reflects on his contributions, Sabu’s legacy as a hardcore icon endures.

Rest in peace, Sabu. Your impact on the world of wrestling will never be forgotten.

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For a visual tribute to Sabu’s life and career, you can watch the following video:

[Sabu dies at 60: What was the cause of death of WWE and ECW icon?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3XtqW6osrU&utm_source=chatgpt.com)

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[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sabu_%28wrestler%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Sabu (wrestler) – Wikipedia”
[2]: https://nypost.com/2025/05/11/sports/sabu-ecw-and-wwe-legend-dead-at-60/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Sabu, ECW legend and former WWE star, dead at 60”
[3]: https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/34902861/sabu-dead-pro-wrestler-dies-tributes/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Sabu dead: Wrestling icon dies suddenly aged 60 less than two weeks after last match as tributes pour in”
[4]: https://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/45098970/hardcore-pro-wrestling-legend-sabu-dies-60?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Hardcore pro wrestling legend Sabu dies at 60 – ESPN”
[5]: https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/sabu-dies-at-60-what-was-the-cause-of-death-of-wwe-and-ecw-icon-101746983917911.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Sabu dies at 60: What was the cause of death of WWE and ECW icon?”