AEW Superstars Matt Hardy, Paul Wight And Other Stars Pay Tribute To WWE’s Bray Wyatt

2 years ago By Jhon Woug

The world of professional wrestling is in mourning as we bid a heartfelt farewell to a true icon, Bray Wyatt. With heavy hearts, fans across the globe are remembering the enigmatic performer who left an indelible mark on the industry. Wyatt, whose real name was Windham Lawrence Rotunda, passed away at the age of 34, leaving behind a legacy that forever altered the wrestling landscape.

AEW’s Matt Hardy has offered a tribute to his former partner in the tag team, Windham Rotunda, who was more widely recognised as Bray Wyatt. This comes following the shocking news of Rotunda’s passing earlier today. During their shared tenure in WWE, their relationship underwent a transformation from rivals to allies, as depicted in their enemies-to-friends storyline.
The journey of Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt unfolded until their ultimate confrontation, titled the “Ultimate Deletion” match, which concluded with Hardy emerging victorious. In a surprising twist, Bray Wyatt returned after this encounter with a renewed persona, aligning himself with Hardy moving forward.
Operating under the moniker The Deleters of Worlds, this unconventional pair went on to secure the Raw Tag Team Championship, solidifying their camaraderie as they stood as the best of friends during this significant phase.

Hardy would say on Twitter:
I am absolutely shattered to learn that my friend, Windham Rotunda, has passed away. It’s devastating to think he left us at only 36 years old. My condolences go out to his family, wife, and children. I’m so sorry, my competitor. I miss you already.”

Other AEW stars paid tribute to him as well. Paul Wight, formerly known as The Big Show (WWE) and The Giant (WCW), would say:
“I’ll be really honest about it; I am still kind of numb from it. When I think of Bray, all I think about is his laugh and his smile, and no matter what we were doing, how excited he was to see me and give me a hug. It doesn’t feel real right now. I’ve been around a long time and lost a lot of good friends; that’s just unfortunately a part of getting older.’

Sayara, formerly known as Paige (WWE), went on to say:
“I can’t believe I’m typing this. But RIP, Windham. I knew you from day one of moving to America; you were the biggest sweetheart and loved by everyone who met you. I’m in shock. I’m sending all my love to the Rotunda family.”

Dustin Rhodes, also known as Goldust, posted the following via X:
“”Just no f***ing words. I love you, Bray. I was like an uncle to them. I hate f***ing death.

Taz of ECW fame also paid tribute, saying the following:
“The toughest part of this industry is when you bond with people, and then that bond is severed unexpectedly. RIP brudda. I was rooting for you just like you did for me. I already missed you, but this is painful. Safe journey, my man.”

Lance Archer of NJPW and AEW expressed his sorrow with the following tweet:
“God speed, my friend! See you on the other side, my brother. #Bray”

Athena tweeted a few minutes later, “One of the kindest people and creative minds that I have ever met! Man, I’m going to miss you. Rest in peace and power, Windham!”

Before Wyatt’s captivating rise, he initially debuted as Husky Harris, a character that did not receive the acclaim he would later achieve. However, his evolution into Bray Wyatt marked a turning point that showcased his range as a performer. His ability to transcend his earlier persona reflected his commitment to his craft and his willingness to experiment with different character portrayals.

Windham Lawrence Rotunda, born on May 23, 1987, was destined to make waves in the wrestling world. Stepping into WWE’s developmental territory in 2009, Wyatt’s initial foray as Husky Harris wasn’t the resounding success he had hoped for. However, it was the reimagining of his character as Bray Wyatt that brought him to the forefront. Debuting on WWE’s revamped NXT in 2012, Wyatt’s persona as a charismatic and eerie cult leader caught the attention of fans and critics alike. Sporting a fedora, Hawaiian shirt, and beard, Wyatt’s unsettling promos and cryptic messages created an aura of mystery that set him apart.

As is evident, the wrestling world is still shaken by the sudden passing of this beloved star. We extend our condolences to the Rotunda family during this trying time.