WWE superstar Bray Wyatt dies aged 36

Wyatt, real name Windham Rotunda, had been dealing with an undisclosed health problem in recent months

Bray Wyatt during his first WWE-title run (WWE)

WWE superstar Bray Wyatt has died at the age of 36, the professional wrestling company has announced.

Wyatt, real name Windham Rotunda, had been dealing with an undisclosed health problem in recent months, and he had not competed since February. WWE wrestler-turned-executive Triple H announced Rotunda’s death on Thursday (24 August).

“Just received a call from WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda who informed us of the tragic news that our WWE family member for life Windham Rotunda - also known as Bray Wyatt - unexpectedly passed earlier today,” he wrote on X. “Our thoughts are with his family and we ask that everyone respect their privacy at this time.”

The death of Rotunda, a former multi-time WWE champion, was announced one day after the passing of WWE legend Terry Funk.

Journalist Sean Ross Sapp wrote on X: “I was given permission to reveal that earlier this year Windham Rotunda (Bray Wyatt) got Covid [which] exacerbated a heart issue. There was a lot of positive progress towards a return and his recovery. Unfortunately today he suffered a heart attack and passed away.”

WWE icon John Cena, a former in-ring rival of Rotunda, wrote on X: “Devastated by the news of the passing of Windham Rotunda. My heart goes out to the entire Rotunda family. Windham brought the best out of me in so many ways. I’m forever grateful for the moments we shared. A sad day for all those he reached around the world. RIP.”

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson also paid tribute, writing: “I’m heartbroken over the news of Bray Wyatt’s passing. Always had tremendous respect and love for him and the Rotunda family. Loved his presence, promos, in ring work and connection with @wwe universe.

“Very unique, cool and rare character, which is hard to create in our crazy world of pro wrestling. Still processing losing the goat [greatest of all time] Terry Funk yesterday and now Bray today. My love, light, strength & mana to the Rotunda family and Funk family during this tough, heartbreaking time.”

Meanwhile, WWE legend Mick Foley wrote: “RIP BRAY WYATT. This is awful news, just terribly sad for his family, friends and fans. I thought so highly of Bray Wyatt, and was so flattered when he started using the mandible claw for his finisher. He was a true visionary; one of the most compelling presences that wrestling has ever seen.”