WWE's Dusty Rhodes Bucks Trend of Dying Young

By ERIN QUINLAN (Patch Staff)

On Thursday, Dusty Rhodes became the latest in a string of professional wrestlers to die over the past several years.

Known as “The American Dream,” Rhodes, whose real name was Virgil Runnels, was 69.

Many wrestlers have died young – including Sean Christopher Haire, known as “Sean O’Haire.” He was 43 years old.

The Ultimate Warrior (James Hellwig) died at age 54 from a massive heart attack. “’Ravishing’ Rick Rude” (Richard Rood) died at age 40 from heart failure.

“’Macho Man’ Randy Savage” (Randy Mario Poffo) died at age 58 from a heart attack. Eddie Guerrero died at age 38 from heart failure.

Tragically, the list goes on and on. And for millions of Americans, who grew up idolizing these superstars, fond memories from days gone by are too often filled with sadness.

According to a 2014 Washington Post article, most wrestlers who have died young have died from suicide, overdoses, or cardiovascular disease.

With the exception of Dino Bravo, — who was murdered at 44, two overdose deaths, and a death resulting from cancer — eight of the 12 wrestlers from WrestleMania VI who have died, have all died from heart disease or heart attacks.

It’s known that wrestling is a tough job, made tougher by the year-round nature of it. The wrestlers sacrifice their bodies, and their health, every day.

While pain management is necessary, but many painkillers have terrible side effects on heart health.

The Post mentions a 2013 study that found that even over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen, can increase a person’s chance of suffering a heart attack.

Rhodes’ cause of death has not been released, but it is possible that he is another victim of the wrestling lifestyle.

Once again, all too soon it is another sad day for professional wrestling and its tens of millions of fans across the world.

“A sad day for WWE. One of the most innovative, charismatic Superstars of all time, Dusty Rhodes, passed away. We loved him,” said WWE Owner Vince McMahon on Twitter.

“Dusty Rhodes was a “National Treasure!” Made by a Plummer. Pure gold! My heart is with the Rhodes family!,” said WWE Hall of Famer Rowdy Rowdy Piper on Twitter. “I already miss him. Dusty was in a class of his own. He out ranks me! “

Photo credit: WWE.com