The wrestling world is in mourning following the death of Terry Brunk, better known to fans as Sabu, who has passed away at the age of 60. WWE and AEW confirmed the passing of the hardcore wrestling icon on May 11, 2025, just weeks after his retirement match during WrestleMania weekend. Known for his extreme in-ring style and fearless approach to the sport, Sabu leaves behind a legacy as one of the most innovative and influential performers in professional wrestling history.
The Homicidal, Suicidal, Genocidal Career of a Hardcore Icon
Born Terry Brunk in 1964, Sabu began his wrestling journey under the guidance of his uncle, WWE Hall of Famer The Sheik (Ed Farhat). After making his professional debut in 1985, Sabu first gained recognition in Japan with Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling (FMW) and New Japan Pro Wrestling, where his high-flying, risk-taking style began to develop.
It was in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) where Sabu truly became a household name in the wrestling world. His first stint with the promotion ran from 1993 to 1995, followed by a return later that year for a five-year run that would define both his career and the hardcore wrestling genre. During this time, he captured the ECW World Heavyweight Championship twice and the ECW World Television Championship once, along with three reigns as ECW World Tag Team Champion.
Sabu’s matches against rivals like Tazz, Rob Van Dam, and The Sandman became the stuff of legend, often featuring tables, chairs, barbed wire, and other weapons that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in a wrestling ring. His willingness to put his body on the line earned him the nickname “The Suicidal, Homicidal, Genocidal, Death-Defying Maniac” – a moniker that perfectly captured his fearless approach to the sport.
“Sabu wasn’t just doing moves; he was creating art with his body and telling stories through pain. He sacrificed everything for the fans’ entertainment.”
– Rob Van Dam, longtime friend and rival
After ECW closed its doors in 2001, Sabu continued to perform for various promotions including Total Nonstop Action (TNA) before joining WWE in 2006 as part of the company’s revival of the ECW brand. During his WWE run, he competed against top stars like John Cena and Rey Mysterio for world championships, and participated in a victorious ECW Originals team at WrestleMania 23 in his hometown of Detroit.
The Final Chapter: Sabu’s Retirement Match
In what would become his final in-ring appearance, Sabu defeated Joey Janela in the main event of Joey Janela’s Spring Break 9 during WrestleMania weekend in Las Vegas. True to form, the match featured Sabu’s trademark hardcore style, including barbed wire and tables. Despite being 60 years old, he demonstrated the same fearless approach that had defined his career, leaving the ring with a bloodied face after giving fans one last glimpse of the legend in action.
“It was an honor and a pleasure to work with Sabu one last time and to be able to give him the sendoff he deserved. His life and career deserve to be celebrated and it’s refreshing to know that his final match was 100 percent authentic Sabu. He is and was a legend, and his legacy will live for generations to come.”
– Brett Lauderdale, GCW owner
The Face of Hardcore Wrestling: Sabu’s Lasting Impact
While the cause of Sabu’s death has not been disclosed, his impact on professional wrestling is undeniable. As one of the pioneers of hardcore wrestling in America, he helped popularize a style that would influence countless performers who came after him. His innovative moves, including the Arabian Facebuster and triple-jump moonsault, pushed the boundaries of what was possible in a wrestling ring.
Beyond his in-ring innovations, Sabu’s willingness to sacrifice his body for entertainment created a new standard for dedication in professional wrestling. His influence can be seen in modern performers across various promotions who incorporate tables, chairs, and high-flying maneuvers into their repertoires.
Tributes Pour In From Wrestling World
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes began pouring in from across the wrestling world. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) posted a memorial image with the caption: “The wrestling world mourns the passing of Sabu. From barbed wire battles to unforgettable high-risk moments, Sabu gave everything to professional wrestling. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans.”
WWE also released a statement acknowledging Sabu’s contributions to the industry: “WWE extends its condolences to Sabu’s family, friends and fans.” Former ECW colleagues and opponents including Rob Van Dam, Francine, and The Blue Meanie shared emotional tributes online, with many using Sabu’s iconic finger-pointing gesture in their posts.
“My heart is broken. Rest in peace to my friend Sabu. I love you always.”
– Francine, ECW alumnus
Remembering a Wrestling Revolutionary
As the wrestling world continues to process the loss of one of its most unique and influential performers, Sabu’s legacy as the face of hardcore wrestling remains secure. From his early training with The Sheik to his final bloodied appearance in the ring, Terry Brunk lived his character with an authenticity and dedication rarely seen in professional wrestling.
For fans who grew up watching ECW in the 1990s or discovered Sabu through his WWE run, his fearless performances and unique character created memories that will endure long after his passing. Though the homicidal, suicidal, genocidal, death-defying maniac may be gone, his influence on professional wrestling will continue for generations to come.
