REST IN PEACE SUBU
EARLY DEATH OF WRESTLING LEGEND
WWE is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Terry Brunk, known to fans around the world as the legendary Sabu. A pioneer of hardcore wrestling and a defining figure of the extreme era, Sabu leaves behind a legacy of innovation, intensity, and resilience that forever changed the world of sports entertainment.
The nephew of WWE Hall of Famer The Sheik, Sabu was born into wrestling royalty and carved out his own legacy through grit, passion, and an unmistakable daredevil style. Trained by his uncle, Sabu honed a unique approach to in-ring combat that was equal parts violent, artistic, and fearless. He first rose to prominence in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he helped redefine the boundaries of professional wrestling during the 1990s.
In ECW, Sabu was a cornerstone of the promotion’s reputation for unrelenting, boundary-pushing action. Known for launching himself through tables, wrapping himself in barbed wire, and risking life and limb for the sake of performance, Sabu became a cult icon. His matches often left audiences breathless and arenas in ruins. With scars that told stories more vividly than words, Sabu embodied the very spirit of hardcore wrestling.
Throughout his ECW career, he engaged in unforgettable battles against legends such as Rob Van Dam, Mick Foley, The Sandman, and his most intense rival, Tazz. His chemistry with Van Dam, both as an opponent and later as a tag team partner, showcased a rare blend of violence and athleticism that electrified fans worldwide. Whether he was flying through the air or surviving brutal stipulations, Sabu’s matches were more than just contests—they were spectacles.
In 2006, Sabu brought his signature chaos to WWE during the relaunch of the ECW brand. Fans welcomed him back with open arms as he stepped into high-profile feuds with some of WWE’s biggest stars. He challenged Rey Mysterio for the World Heavyweight Championship and took on John Cena in a brutal Extreme Rules match for the WWE Championship, demonstrating that his intensity had not dimmed with time.
One of the crowning moments of Sabu’s WWE career came at WrestleMania 23, held in his hometown of Detroit, Michigan. In front of a roaring crowd of over 80,000 fans at Ford Field, Sabu stood shoulder to shoulder with ECW Originals—The Sandman, Tommy Dreamer, and Rob Van Dam—in a triumphant battle that paid tribute to everything ECW stood for. That night, under the bright lights of the grandest stage of them all, Sabu once again proved he was more than a performer—he was a symbol of a rebellious, unrelenting era.
After parting ways with WWE in 2007, Sabu continued to compete across the globe, thrilling fans in Japan, Europe, and independent promotions throughout the United States. His style and influence echoed through the next generations of wrestlers who saw in him not just a competitor, but an innovator and an outlaw hero.
Despite the injuries, despite the odds, Sabu endured. He lived and breathed wrestling, and his commitment to his craft inspired countless fans and fellow wrestlers. Few dared to go as far or sacrifice as much in the name of performance.
Terry Brunk, the man behind the legend, will be remembered not only for what he did inside the ring, but for the indelible spirit he brought to it. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who admired his courage, his tenacity, and his passion for professional wrestling.
WWE extends its heartfelt condolences to Sabu’s family, friends, and his countless fans around the world. He was, and will always be, one of a kind.
Rest in peace, Sabu. you will be missed!
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About the Creator
bernard shields
just an old guy who decided to do something with my time,while the weather was a bit iffy! just about getting the hang of this now.
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Sabu: A Hardcore Wrestling Icon and His Fiercest Rivalries Sabu, a legendary figure in hardcore wrestling, is best known for his intense and often brutal rivalries that helped define the extreme style of ECW. Among his most memorable feuds were those with Rob Van Dam, Mick Foley, Taz, Terry Funk, and Abyss—each contributing to his legacy in different ways. Key Rivalries Rob Van Dam (RVD): Sabu’s rivalry with Rob Van Dam was one of ECW’s most iconic. Known for their high-risk, high-flying style, the two delivered electrifying matches that captivated fans. Despite their in-ring clashes, the pair trained together and developed a strong friendship outside the ring. Eventually, they joined forces to become a successful tag team, showcasing their chemistry in a new light. Mick Foley (Cactus Jack): Though they faced off less frequently, Sabu’s matches against Mick Foley—wrestling as Cactus Jack—left a lasting impact. Their confrontations in ECW were raw, intense, and emblematic of the hardcore era. Taz: Sabu and Taz shared a heated feud characterized by anticipation and psychological warfare. While their direct in-ring encounters were limited, Taz often sent a message by choking out opponents, making it clear he was targeting Sabu. Terry Funk: Another hardcore legend, Terry Funk, clashed with Sabu in a rivalry that blended experience and unpredictability. Their battles were gritty and memorable, further solidifying Sabu’s place in wrestling history. Abyss: In the early 2000s, Sabu ignited a notable feud with Abyss, bringing his trademark extreme style to a new generation of hardcore wrestling fans. Their encounters were violent and chaotic—true to both competitors' reputations.
Sabu was one of a kind. His style was so wild and unique. I remember watching his ECW matches and being blown away by his fearlessness. The way he'd go through tables and use barbed wire was crazy. It made wrestling so much more intense. Do you think his influence on the hardcore style can still be seen in today's wrestling? And which of his rivalries was the most memorable for you?