but I cannot believe he lasted this long. I had to deal with him for the original Arsenio Hall show back in the day and he was plain nuts. God bless him, though.
He looked healthy and coherent and as normal as Warrior can be
he used lots and lots of anabolics back in the day and those enlarge the left ventricle significantly, leading to deficiency in how the heart works as a pump
RIP, one of the most charismatic wrestlers WWF ever had if it is true
he used lots and lots of anabolics back in the day and those enlarge the left ventricle significantly, leading to deficiency in how the heart works as a pump
RIP, one of the most charismatic wrestlers WWF ever had if it is true
Absolutely possible. They speculated the same thing with Eddie Guerrero. All that steroid usage does permanent damage to the heart, but even so, it's way too early to speculate.
he used lots and lots of anabolics back in the day and those enlarge the left ventricle significantly, leading to deficiency in how the heart works as a pump
RIP, one of the most charismatic wrestlers WWF ever had if it is true
Absolutely possible. They speculated the same thing with Eddie Guerrero. All that steroid usage does permanent damage to the heart, but even so, it's way too early to speculate.
This is just unbelievable.
I was wondering if something was up...he looked red as a cherry last night when he walked down to ringside and it took some effort to even get to the ring
Seeing him return for the first time in forever, burying the proverbial hatchet, and then literally the day after Raw he's dead.
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
I bet you that's going to be a theory. That Warrior and others knew his time was coming so they inducted him to the HOF and he was gave essentially a final goodbye on Monday Night Raw.
But I just don't see it. His family looked so incredibly happy last night, as did he. I just don't see this as anything premeditated or that he knew his time was near because of some illness. I just don't know how they could keep that under wraps.
WWE.com used the word "shocked". But if you look at some of the tweets from people involved, no one seems overly shocked to be honest about it. Triple H, Stephanie, Jim Ross, Kevin Nash, etc. Read their tweets on it. I'ts more like saddened to announce the passing.
Cause I'm serious I just read that I went back to copy and paste and it is not changed. Simply saying he died an the date. Now I know what I saw so in all seriousness how did that just happen.
And anak I wasn't being an asshole I was just relaying what I had just read
Cause I'm serious I just read that I went back to copy and paste and it is not changed. Simply saying he died an the date. Now I know what I saw so in all seriousness how did that just happen.
And anak I wasn't being an asshole I was just relaying what I had just read
but I cannot believe he lasted this long. I had to deal with him for the original Arsenio Hall show back in the day and he was plain nuts. God bless him, though.
Phil there's a YouTube of him on Arsenio Hall circa 1990, I'm guessing that's what you're referring to...and he is insane, flipping the couches and can't sit still. Can only imagine what he was like live
A unique performer. And living to 54...sad to say but that's a pretty long life for the lifestyle these guys lived. Which is a real shame, fond memories of watching warrior wrestle as a kid
Seeing him return for the first time in forever, burying the proverbial hatchet, and then literally the day after Raw he's dead.
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
I bet you that's going to be a theory. That Warrior and others knew his time was coming so they inducted him to the HOF and he was gave essentially a final goodbye on Monday Night Raw.
But I just don't see it. His family looked so incredibly happy last night, as did he. I just don't see this as anything premeditated or that he knew his time was near because of some illness. I just don't know how they could keep that under wraps.
Suicide is definitely possible, as it is in every death where you don't know how someone died. And in his case definitely more likely.
But if anyone comes up with that theory you posted and actually believes it then they need to be put in a mental institution. Basically saying that the WWE knew he was going to commit suicide so instead of getting him help they inducted him into the hall of fame and then put him on raw. What a ridiculous "theory"
Seeing him return for the first time in forever, burying the proverbial hatchet, and then literally the day after Raw he's dead.
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
I bet you that's going to be a theory. That Warrior and others knew his time was coming so they inducted him to the HOF and he was gave essentially a final goodbye on Monday Night Raw.
But I just don't see it. His family looked so incredibly happy last night, as did he. I just don't see this as anything premeditated or that he knew his time was near because of some illness. I just don't know how they could keep that under wraps.
Suicide is definitely possible, as it is in every death where you don't know how someone died. And in his case definitely more likely.
But if anyone comes up with that theory you posted and actually believes it then they need to be put in a mental institution. Basically saying that the WWE knew he was going to commit suicide so instead of getting him help they inducted him into the hall of fame and then put him on raw. What a ridiculous "theory"
I don't think they knew he would kill himself I think the suggestion is maybe Warrior and WWE knew his health was not that great.
Seeing him return for the first time in forever, burying the proverbial hatchet, and then literally the day after Raw he's dead.
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
I bet you that's going to be a theory. That Warrior and others knew his time was coming so they inducted him to the HOF and he was gave essentially a final goodbye on Monday Night Raw.
But I just don't see it. His family looked so incredibly happy last night, as did he. I just don't see this as anything premeditated or that he knew his time was near because of some illness. I just don't know how they could keep that under wraps.
Suicide is definitely possible, as it is in every death where you don't know how someone died. And in his case definitely more likely.
But if anyone comes up with that theory you posted and actually believes it then they need to be put in a mental institution. Basically saying that the WWE knew he was going to commit suicide so instead of getting him help they inducted him into the hall of fame and then put him on raw. What a ridiculous "theory"
Not suicide but that he had a terminal illness and people knew he didn't have long to live. Again, it's not my theory, but I guarantee you it will be given the timing.
Scott Hall @SCOTTHALLNWO 4m
Just heard a horrible rumor...please tell me @UltimateWarrior is ok ..,,,
From what I know, Warrior didn't have a great relationship with Nash or Hall. They never spoke well of each other. I think they patched things up. Warrior's second to last tweet was congratulating Scott Hall.
Retweeted by Lance Storm
Wade Keller @thewadekeller 2m
TMZ reports that Warrior collapsed Tues @ 5:50 while walking to his car at an Arizona hotel and was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead.
safe to assume his history of steroid use didn't help his heart in the long run. After he retired, he would still preach the positives of anabolic steroids, too. A shame his heart gave out.
I just watched a ton of Ultimate Warrior stuff on Youtube last week.
up today. I thought he and the undertaker were the same person when I was younger, not sure but it seemed like under taker came in around the time ultimate left.
but no way, ultimate warrior was much more ripped.
one of the most imposing wrestlers of the WWF era.
At his age, it could be a variety of things. Hope it's not suicide or partying. Suicide makes much less sense considering how much he had going on for him again. Anyways, don't want to detract from this thread with unsubstantiated speculation.
Many stars of the business took to Twitter tonight upon hearing of the passing of The Ultimate Warrior.
Vince McMahon: "We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters.We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters."
Triple H: "Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters."
Stephanie McMahon: "Your strength of character is to be admired. There will never be anyone like you. Your spirit lives on in your family."
Hulk Hogan: "RIP WARRIOR. only love. HH"
Dwayne Johnson: "Loss always has a way of reminding us to live and love as greatly as we can. My prayers and strength to his family. RIP Ultimate Warrior."
Roddy Piper: "Tomorrow is promised to know one!! Enjoy every second, with a tool called love!! My love to The Warrior and family. RIP"
Jim Ross: "Sad to pass along the news that the Ultimate Warrior has died. Condolences to his wife & two, young daughters."
Daniel Bryan: "Heartbroken. My sincerest condolences go out to The Warrior's family. Seeing how much he loved his daughters and his wife this weekend...... makes it all the more heartbreaking. The Ultimate Warrior was my favorite as a kid, and getting to speak to him this weekend was one...... of my favorite moments. He was so nice to me. #RIPWarrior"
JBK: "Really saddened to hear about @UltimateWarrior passing away. RIP A tremendous legend."
Seth Rollins:"I just don't know what to say....Warrior was a huge part of why I fell in love with pro wrestling...Life is too damn short."
Natalya: "Thoughts and prayers go out to Warrior and his family. Incredibly sad to hear this news."
Zeb Colter "Stunned to hear of the Ultimate Warrior passing...I managed UW and Sting when they were both starting out. RIP Jim. Peace be with you. @WWE"
Paige: "In complete shock. Thankful I got to shake his hand yesterday. So sad. #RIPUltimateWarrior"
Kevin Nash: "So happy I embraced Warrior with a hug when we saw each other backstage Saturday night.My heart goes out to his family.Always Believe."
Curtis Axel: "Shocked and very saddened to hear about Ultimate Warrior passing. Prayers go out to his family! RIP. Loss for words..."
Cody Rhodes: "I am privileged to have spent some time with Warrior on Sunday and shake his hand. Rest in peace."
The Bella Twins: "In such shock right now... Prayers go out to Warrior, his wife & little girls. What an amazing man he was. He will always be remembered. RIP"
Adam Rose: RIP Ultimate Warrior. You will always be remembered.
Justin Roberts: "He was the 1st superstar I met as a kid/got me hooked on WWE.Proudly wore his jacket my entire childhood.RIP Warrior http://instagram.com/p/mjiWP3scG6/"
Zack Ryder: "Im in shock. The Ultimate Warrior has passed away. I just met him yesterday. RIP. Ill always believe!!!"
Dallas Page: "Deeply saddened to find out about the passing of #WWE LEGEND, @UltimateWarrior. You & your legacy will FOREVER be remembered in our hearts!"
Chris Jericho: "Devastated to hear of the passing of @UltimateWarrior. He was a childhood hero of mine & he vs @HulkHogan WM6 is still one of the best ever"
Trish Stratus: "Sad to hear news of Warrior passing. Just seeing him happy last 3 days - it puts life in perspective that it can't be taken for granted. RIP"
Randy Orton: "My thoughts and prayers go out to the Warrior family. It breaks my heart after seeing how proud his girls are of their father. Stay strong"
Summer Rae: "Just after this weekend,after last night? Im shocked & so saddened to hear of the passing of @UltimateWarrior.My prayers are with his family"
Jason Albert: "Glad I was able to shake the man's hand and speak for a moment. My thoughts and prayers to your wife and two daughters.RIP #UltimateWarrior"
Jake Roberts: "Deeply saddened. We just had a great talk & buried a senseless hatchet. Talked working together. RIP Warrior. Taking solace we made peace."
David Otunga: "I'm saddened to hear of Warrior's passing. He gave such an impassioned speech at HOF. He was one of my childhood heroes. #RIPUltimateWarrior"
Vickie Guerrero: "So saddened by the news of the death of Warrior"
Cameron: "An icon and hero has passed! Can't believe I just met and saw this man yesterday!God has gained a true gem and angel #ripultimatewarrior! "
Yoshi Tatsu: "I'm really shocked and saddened to hear the passing of one of the my heros Ultimate Warrior ...Rest in peace Ultimate Warrior..."
Emma: "So shocked and saddened by the news of the ultimate warrior passing! #RIP"
Dave Bautista: "After all these years I finally got 2 tell him that me shaking the ropes was an homage 2 him. Blessed to have had that moment. #onelife"
Jeff Jarrett: "Life is short... Live life to the fullest... #RIPUltimateWarrior"
Magnus: "Absolutely tragic. I'm devastated by the news of Ultimate Warrior's death. Truly one of a kind & an inspiration. #RIPWarrior"
Joey Mercury: "I think it's awesome that in his final days, COUNTLESS people got to express to him what a positive impact he made on them, me included."
Matt Hardy: "The news of Ultimate Warrior passing away immediately after returning to the @WWE is unbelievable-I'm shocked. My condolences to his family."
Rob Van Dam: "#RIPUltimateWarrior pic.twitter.com/9guvY4AerG"
I didn't realize death at 54 could be from a natural cause, as in steroids.
On a slightly different note, I saw Roddy Piper on some reality TV show the other day and was surprised at how much smaller he was. The human body is not meant to have the amount of muscle these guys have.
It looked to me like he was cluching at his chest after
He looked like he was having trouble walking ok Saturday night almost like he needed a can to walk upright. Just crazy that he died one day after he was back on Raw.
There were 44 people on the card between wrestlers and managers and 12 are dead. That is not good. Kerry Von Erich, Davey Boy Smith, Savage, Elizabeth, Sherri, Warrior, Brian Adams, Paul Bearer, Big Boss Man, Curt Henning, Earthquake, Hercules.
Seems about the appropriate lifespan for a man who physically abused his body for a living. Nobody's heart is designed to last very long after taking so many hardcore steroids
thanks for the transcript of his last speech... its perfectly in UW's character. I wouldn't be surprised if his UW character and his real life over-lapped, he had an element of sincerity to his mad rants.
Rest in peace, all the little warriors will remember you fondly!
I think the activity and stress of the weekend taxed him
It looked like he had a bad left hip, and was really struggling just to stand upright while giving the Raw speech. Heart attack seems the likely cause, and to come immediately after he apparently made peace with so many is sad. So fragile is life.
i remember as a kid watching Wm6 and just hoping Hogan would beat him.. He lost and was just in awe of the guy. Big, ran everywhere... just a force... i wasnt smart enough to see how he was as a wrestler but he was just cool.
sucks that he was one of the few that got out for his kids and his life. His kids are young too..
Its almost like he knew.... even when they were chanting for "one more match" he shot that right down...saying it wasn't gonna happen... Then that speech that he gave at raw saying the Warrior will live in spirit forever.... I wonder if he knew he was on borrowed time... very sad none the less.. a true icon... Im just so glad that he got into the HOF while he was alive and got to stand in front of his fans one last time with his mask on and say goodbye one last time... "FLY HIGH WARRIOR"
I just ordered the new Blu ray over the weekend and i was gonna watch it tonight ...His speech Saturday @ the hall of fame was great .He did look like he was struggling with walking but i think he had a bad hip .
The passing of the Ultimate Warrior, literally hours after he returned home to Arizona following his first appearance for WWE since 1996 on Raw, is going to either be remembered as one of those tragic coincidences or a truly amazing final chapter in his life.
In a way, that's sort of fitting for the life and the career that Warrior led. There was no middle ground for him, no grey area. You were either on his side or you were against him - and it didn't matter if you were Vince McMahon, Hulk Hogan or an independent promoter....if Warrior didn't feel he was being treated fairly or was being represented fairly, you were going to suffer his wrath, publicly and privately.
That led to a lot of people seeing Warrior in one of two ways - the man who stood up for himself and would walk away from anything...or the man who was impossible to deal with. The reality is that he was both, sometimes at the same time, but he was also someone who was that way because he had a strong belief in himself, his family and his legacy - and that is something that has to be admired, especially today.
I spent about six hours with Warrior in a hotel room once in October 2004, filming a shoot interview that was later released by Ringside Collectibles. Off camera, he was warm and funny and friendly, even though he was very tired from his flight to NYC. His primary concerns were to call his family during every break.
Once the camera turned on, there was an intensity to him and on many points during the filming (and on a lot that was never seen - Warrior had final approval over the final cut, of course: he was Warrior) we argued about different points. He even at one point mocked me for asking him about different memories, which made his WWE Hall of Fame speech pretty amusing to me as he went on and on and on with what else? Memories.
At times, on camera, it felt like I was going to war with the man, but anytime the cameras were off, he was nothing but friendly and happy, especially when his long-time friend Jim Powers showed up. That visit was especially awesome, since the segment we had just filmed featured Warrior's statement that he didn't keep in contact with anyone from the business. Five minutes later, he's hugging Powers. Why? Warrior knew how he wanted to be presented on the DVD.
When the interview was over, Warrior asked for my information. When I left the hotel room, I could hear him very unhappy complaining about the line of questioning I used at times. I knew right then I'd never hear from him. I never did, but at a signing the next day, he greeted me warmly. That was just how he was. The experience led to one of the most unique interviews ever released on DVD: a dare anyone to find another where the interviewer and the subject are almost at odds the entire time. It remains in my personal "top ten" things I've done around wrestling just because of the surreal nature of the discussion.
I was often asked a lot over the years about what Warrior was really like and the filming of that DVD and it was certainly an interesting day. There were times when I would ask a question (he had demanded them in advance) and he had a great answer, but when I asked a follow-up, he would stare at me as if I had broken the rules before finally giving one. If you watched his WWE Hall of Fame speech, there were times when he seemed to lose his train of thought before coming back to his point - that was the same Warrior I met in 2004.
At the Hall, just like that day with me, he was focused and intense, and if you knocked him off that focus, he wasn't happy about it and needed a minute to refocus himself and his thoughts. The guy envisioned what he wanted in his head for himself and how he was to be portrayed and if he was off even a small point from what he wanted, there was going to be hell to pay. I can and do respect that.
For all the talk of the guy not being a great in-ring worker or hard to deal with, he was in the top echelon of all time great professional wrestling personalities. He went from being just another muscle-bound rookie in wrestling scene full of them to the man that handed the Hulkamania-era Hulk Hogan his first-ever clean pinfall loss in the WWF. He was undoubtedly part of the trilogy of the WWF's great three babyfaces of their first decade - Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage and Ultimate Warrior - that trio shaped the enjoyment, dreams and happiness of a lot of wrestling fans....and Warrior was the only guy to pin them both at Wrestlemania.
Anyone who denies that he was an icon or a legend or anything else in pro wrestling is completely insane - Warrior hit a level that very few ever have...and very few ever will...especially in the short amount of time Warrior accomplished the feat.
It absolutely sucks that he died when he did. The idea that this man left his home to come back and finally embrace his past - bringing his children to see what Daddy used to do - and never returned to his home again is pretty damn jarring and if anything, should be a reminder to us all that nothing is ever, ever promised to us.
It's also absolutely insane to think of the timing of his passing. If it had been 96 hours earlier, there would have been no WWE Hall of Fame speech that brought some around me to tears in New Orleans. Had it happened on Sunday, it would happened the same day as Wrestlemania. 48 hours sooner, it could have happened before, at or after Monday Night Raw.
In some ways, we were watching Warrior give his own eulogy. Again, you never know. Nothing is a given for any of us.
Wrestling fans who love Warrior owe a great deal of thanks to Triple H, who spearheaded the drive to bring Warrior back into the WWE family, much as he did Bruno Sammartino a year before. Had it not been HHH trying to put out old fires and give wrestling fans what they wanted, had it not been HHH wanting important figures in the history of the business back in the WWE fold, there never would have been that final moment of farewell, that moment for Warrior fans to enjoy and that crazy picture of Vince McMahon and Warrior smiling together.
Don't believe me? As any die-hard Randy Savage fan what they would have given for that sort of closure and happiness.
It would have been very interesting to see what could have come for Warrior and WWE in the years to come. His appearance on Raw was as much about closing the door on his career as the Hall was. He was never going to let himself be one of the older guys appearing in a silly Wrestlemania vignette. He was more likely going to be presented like Bruno Sammartino was - this legend that WWE is lucky to have had blazing the trail and lucky to have around today.
Well, for two days, WWE and its fans were extremely lucky to have Warrior back.
The story of Warrior is going to be one that is told for many, many decades to come. There were the early days in Memphis and Mid-South with Sting. There were the Dingo Warrior days with the Von Erichs, who Warrior loved deeply. There was the first WWF run that saw him go from an unknown working B-shows to winning the Intercontinental title in 30 seconds to main eventing Wrestlemania VI before 60,000 fans to "retiring" Randy Savage. There was the first break-up with WWF over money, which as court documents would later show, WWF was willing to give him before things went sour. There was a return a year later before the inevitable change in the landscape in the business as Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels began to be pushed while larger characters were let go for different reasons that all began with the Dr. Zahorian trial in the early 1990s. There was the 1996 return, during a time period where WWF really needed as many strong characters as possible as WCW breathed down their neck, but heads began knocking and Warrior quit and went home. There was the WCW run that was as awful as anything and really just an excuse for Hulk Hogan to get his old loss back - one that was so bad that Warrior admitted on the WWE DVD release that just came out that if he had known what the deal was, no amount of money would have brought him back.
There were lawsuits. There were rumors of multiple Warriors (false). There were rumors he died and was replaced (again, false, although eerily sad given the news of today).
In the end though, Warrior best summed up his career with his appearances this past weekend. His character was one that inspired and one that gave fans something to believe in. I don't think anyone could ask for a better legacy than that.
until I was older and not such a fan of WWF. We use to refer to him as Ultimate Steroid because there was no better example of how a roided up guy looks and acts. That said, his entrances still blow away anything the WWE has offered before or since.
I was watching RAW Monday night with my 10-year old. The guy look shaky in the ring. Guess the lifestyle finally caught up with him.
How many wrestlers need to die before someone stpes in and does something? Most f'd up industry in America.
It has actualy changed a lot...a lot of the new guys do not drink or party like the older guys used to...the business has changed a great deal...the steroid policy is a lot stricter nowadays...
WWE pays for rehab for guys hwo need no matter when they were last in the company or for how many years...Scott Hall said WWE paid for 22 rehab stints...
I can't believe this. He looked so vibrant and healthy last night
RIP Warrior. I don't know what you were watching but he didn't look vibrant nor healthy on Raw. I watched it was sad goes he looked terrible, he looked like he wasn't Gina even make it back to the locker room.
are still mostly wrestlers now in their 50s, long past their prime and the heavy steroid use well in the past. They've apparently gone to lengths to clean the anabolic usage in the business.
The younger generation is very likely using HGH though, given what I see, also very likely the Rock and Triple H are using it, for that matter.
look the industry is far from clean but I actually think the WWE deserves credit for the lengths they have gone to try and improve their problems. yeah it's all about the money but they have fired and suspended users and across the board people seem to agree it's a pretty clean company for what it is.
In my top 10 fav wrestlers, EVER!
His entrance to the ring was a show in itself.Even if he just flexed for 5 minutes and ripped at the ropes a few times, worth the price of admission.
That tribute to his daughters at the HOF ceremonies is all I can picture at the moment.
his exit was as profound as his wrestling entrance.
I kept thinking, especially on RAW, that he didn't quite look 100% and was having trouble breathing or something, and I thought out loud jesus I hope he doesn't have a heart attack.
So sad. Prayers to his family.
I was lucky enough to cover an event that he spoke at at my alma mater in 2004 when he was doing the whole conservative bit. While he had strong opinions he mind was fascinating in that he wanted people to think for themselves.
Always trying to spread inspiration. To spread belief.
even though he was a prick in real life with such viewpoints as "queering doesn't make the world work" and telling an Iranian college student that he needed to go get a towel for his head or something to that extent.
We talked,both forgave each other,we hugged ,we shook hands as we told each other I love you,I am so sad,God bless his beautiful family HH
i am glad he could make ammends with Vince and a lot of the boys in the back before he passed...there is a picture on Twitter of him and Nash hugging and those 2 had a big beef as well...
are still mostly wrestlers now in their 50s, long past their prime and the heavy steroid use well in the past. They've apparently gone to lengths to clean the anabolic usage in the business.
The younger generation is very likely using HGH though, given what I see, also very likely the Rock and Triple H are using it, for that matter.
And Cena definitely takes something and I know he's denied it and laughed it off, but the proof is in the pudding.
Almost all of them are taking something. I don't think that was the case 20-30 years ago. There were certainly plenty, but I don't think it was the overwhelming majority.
I laugh whenever I hear/read about their drug testing policy.
I kept thinking, especially on RAW, that he didn't quite look 100% and was having trouble breathing or something, and I thought out loud jesus I hope he doesn't have a heart attack.
Can you imagine if that would have happened?
He was on live TV for these last three days in some form and then the next day he passes away. WWE got very lucky with that situation.
Almost all of them are taking something. I don't think that was the case 20-30 years ago. There were certainly plenty, but I don't think it was the overwhelming majority.
Aside from the fat guys, they were pretty much ALL on something 20-30 years ago. And those that weren't using PEDs were either on hard recreational drugs or abusing pain killers.
Almost all of them are taking something. I don't think that was the case 20-30 years ago. There were certainly plenty, but I don't think it was the overwhelming majority.
I laugh whenever I hear/read about their drug testing policy.
Then you really are not paying attention...
Steroid and drug abuse was a lot worse 20-30 years ago then it is now...
The wrestlers now are more into video games then they are drugs and steroids and the guys who are on drugs are immediately suspended...
Look at Chris Masters for instance WWE loved him and thought he was one of their up and coming stars but kept testing positive and eventually released...
Evan Bourne keeps getting busted for Pot and has not been seen in a long long time...
Do guys still use steroids? absolutely but it is not nearly as bad as it was back then...
if they find one of their wrestlers are addicted to something they immediately offer them to go to rehab on their dime whether they are still with the company or not...
Almost similar to the ending of the movie The Wrestler
Almost all of them are taking something. I don't think that was the case 20-30 years ago. There were certainly plenty, but I don't think it was the overwhelming majority.
I laugh whenever I hear/read about their drug testing policy.
Certainly was true in the territories and in WCW. You had guys who looked like your uncle, all flabby and everything, wrestle, whereas in the WWE/F, you'd have muscle-jacked guys who looked like the Terminator. Vince back in the day gave out 'roids like they were candy and that's why many took them. Certainly the 3 biggest guys back then, Hogan, Macho and Warrior, took them. Later on, Rock, HHH and Austin (Debra said in an interview he took them, which contributed to his abuse). And now, you know for a fact (except for Cena who I mentioned before is all but certain to take something. He's a liar) that Orton, Batista and Cena all took or take something. Obviously, if the truth came out and Cena was revealed to have taken something, it would send shockwaves throughout the WWE and all the kiddies would be upset that their hero cheated. There is no doubt in my mind that the WWE is keeping it all under wraps for the sake of PR. But his body and attitude aside, the fact that Cena can come back with such serious injuries so fast...I mean he's either really Superman or he's taking something. As long as the WWE prevents bad press or another Benoit situation, they'll always look the other way when it comes to guys taking steroids.
HGH is technically allowed and as far as I know, isn't tested for in the WWE...Plus, you can take it with a doctor's prescription.
but I feel absolutely horrible. I can't imagine what the kids are going through right now. This is such an incredibly horrific timing for something like this to happen, ugh. wow.
Colin is a piece of shit for saying. "they showed me why they are the best team in the NFL right now," about the Steelers in week 8 of 2008 after they LOST to the Giants 21-14 when both teams came in at 5-1.
He's an upper-crust patrician who lowers himself to partake in watching or discussing sports, and the plebs who have passion for their sports are the common riff-raff who are relegated to the nosebleed seats.
Why the fuck do people subject themselves to that.
the warrior vs hogan match was one of the most anticipated and exciting match that i can remember. I was torn as to who to root for as I looked up to both wrestlers. Hulk Hogan never had lost a big match up to that point so I was in utter shock when Warrior beat him. I will always remember that day.
The WWE Network will have Ultimate Warrior programming tonight starting at 8. I believe one of things being show will be his title match with Hogan at Wrestlemania VI.
want to shed some man tears just put on the 2014 Hall of Fame fast forward to 2:44 when Warrior comes out and is escorted by his 2 young daughters and how he first addresses his family his loving wife his mom who raised him and his siblings without their father and how nothing he did in the ring will ever be as awesome as being a father to those 2 girls..Then he is gone 3 days later.
want to shed some man tears just put on the 2014 Hall of Fame fast forward to 2:44 when Warrior comes out and is escorted by his 2 young daughters and how he first addresses his family his loving wife his mom who raised him and his siblings without their father and how nothing he did in the ring will ever be as awesome as being a father to those 2 girls..Then he is gone 3 days later.
I watched it last night and it was tough to watch. His daughters really seemed to love him a lot. And now he's gone.
Ultimate Warrior looked like he was on the verge of a medical catastrophe all weekend -- sweaty and stressed, like he was about to "burst at the seams" ... eyewitnesses tell TMZ.
According to sources who were with Warrior this past weekend, the WWE legend looked like he was in constant pain ... sweaty and looked very uncomfortable, like he was choking on his tie. It was apparent to everyone ... something was seriously off.
Another warning sign -- when Warrior did his signature rope shake after his big speech on Monday Night Raw, he looked weak ... and people around him noticed.
One eyewitness put it this way ... "We all felt like he looked like he was going to blow a gasket. It was pretty easy to see."
It makes Warrior's speech on Monday Night Raw even more ominous ... "Every man's heart one day beats its final beat. His lungs breathe a final breath." 24 hours later he was dead.
Quote:
More details are coming in regarding the final days of the Ultimate Warrior.
WWE had a camera crew following Warrior and his family around during the entire weekend. The footage was shot for a future project looking at Warrior's return to the WWE Universe.
Warrior and his family did not stay at the Roosevelt Hotel with the rest of the WWE talent. The company rented a house locally for Warrior and his family and had a car service shuttle them to and from the Hall of Fame ceremony, WrestleMania and RAW.
According to sources who were backstage at the Hall of Fame ceremony, Warrior was very friendly when approached, but also quiet and somewhat reserved. Several people commented on Warrior sweating a lot and appearing physically frail, despite his muscular stature.
TMZ.com reports that an eye witness saw Warrior clutching his chest moments before he collapsed at the Gainey Suites Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Warrior suffered a "catastrophic medical event" and so far, there is no evidence of drugs or alcohol playing a factor in his death. An investigation is underway and the Maricopa County Medical Examiner will be conducting an autopsy on Thursday.
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According to some sources, Warrior and his family were made aware of his greatly failing health recently which was the precursor for him to come back and sign a deal with WWE for both as a way to say good bye and also to provide income. The contract will be honored by WWE and used to support his family now that he is gone.
Natural causes, while age is usually a factor, can be at any age. A terminally ill child's cause of death would officially be natural causes if they have medical documentation.
Just a guess, but James Helwig will probably be classified as undetermined right now and require an autopsy. The only way that would be bypassed is if there is medical documentation that supports a natural death at this time. Then his PCP will be required by law to sign the death certificate.
I wouldn't expect answers any time soon because tox and all that would have to be done with his background. Probably 6-12 months for a death certificate with a cause and manner of death.
Funny thing is that this would have been my case if I didn't switch professions recently.
"According to some sources, Warrior and his family were made aware of his greatly failing health recently which was the precursor for him to come back and sign a deal with WWE for both as a way to say good bye and also to provide income. The contract will be honored by WWE and used to support his family now that he is gone."
So maybe it was expected...maybe it happened sooner than everyone thought, but perhaps they knew Warrior had only a short amount of time to live.
RE: I don't care what Cowherd says about dead people.
Colin is a piece of shit for saying. "they showed me why they are the best team in the NFL right now," about the Steelers in week 8 of 2008 after they LOST to the Giants 21-14 when both teams came in at 5-1.
To be fair... Those wound up being prophetic words.
She talked about the Ultimate Warrior death claiming that steroids have kiled so many wrestlers then named Owen Hart as someone who died of steroids...
also named a couple of others one died of cancer...
She throws slander at the guys who died because of the steroid use...
The Iron Sheik @the_ironsheik 13h
Nancy Grace YOU FAT DUMB BITCH I beat the fuck out of you talk bad about my wrestling brother. GO FUCK YOURSELF YOU DEAD DOG WHORE
The Iron Sheik @the_ironsheik 10h
Hello @NancyGraceHLN you dead dog whore GO FUCK YOURSELF
Zeb Colter @WWEZeb 7h
If anybody receives an email entitled NANCY GRACE NUDE, do not open it. It's not a virus. It really is Nancy Grace nude. @NancyGraceHLN @WWE
Zeb Colter @WWEZeb 11h
#boycottnancy @NancyGraceHLN RETWEETS REQUESTED. Wrong fan base to piss off Nancy.
Jim Cornette @TheJimCornette 10m
Before @NancyGraceHLN became a curse to the eyes/ears on TV, she was a LAWYER! Double-header of people you wouldn't want to associate with!
Jim Cornette @TheJimCornette 22m
@gailkimITSME @NancyGraceHLN The blowhard had, among others, Mark Curtis and Owen Hart on a list of wrestlers who died "because of drugs"!
Retweeted by Jim Cornette
Tony Bravo @RingsideRants 8m
@TheJimCornette @NancyGraceHLN she's also lied several times about her fiance's murder to embellish her own image. Real class act!
According to Warrior, his father & grandfather died in their 50s
So, the uneducated opinion is his genetics could have been a ticking timebomb and throw in the massive levels of stress he placed on his heart over his lifetime result in this.
after insisting he didn't want to talk about it, spent another 45 minutes burying everything pro wrestling related and equating it with the Superhero movies as brainless, childish, and stupid.
Mind you Cowherd loves shows like the Sopranos and similar as 'intelligent' and engaging.
PS. I listened to Cowherd b/c the Alternative was Jay Mohr.
after insisting he didn't want to talk about it, spent another 45 minutes burying everything pro wrestling related and equating it with the Superhero movies as brainless, childish, and stupid.
Mind you Cowherd loves shows like the Sopranos and similar as 'intelligent' and engaging.
PS. I listened to Cowherd b/c the Alternative was Jay Mohr.
Mohr's show is great, and he mentioned the exact same sopranos thing when talking about cowherd's hate for wrestling.
On Friday night's edition of WWE SmackDown, it was confirmed that next Monday night's edition of RAW will feature a tribute to WWE Hall of Famer Ultimate Warrior, who tragically died this past Tuesday night.
During the first hour of the broadcast, the following message was scrolled across the bottom of the screen which confirmed that the tribute would indeed take place as previously reported:
"The WWE family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. WWE sends its sincere condolences to Warrior's family, friends, and fans. This Monday night's RAW will be dedicated to the Ultimate Warrior where we will pay tribute and honor his memory."
According to a report from TMZ, WWE officials are personally helping The Ultimate Warrior's family, his widow Dana in particular, to get through this difficult time. They have even gone as far as to help her with everyday tasks such as grocery shopping and contacting other family members and telling them about the situation so that way Dana can just focus on her daughters.
Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters
WTF. Self-inflicted?
I saw pics of him with fans this morning online at an airport
RIP Ultimate Warrior
I saw pics of him with fans this morning online at an airport
Heart attacks can sneak up on everyone.
I saw pics of him with fans this morning online at an airport
But why!? He sounded like he was in a great place in his life.
Even if it turns out to be suicide, it's still an asinine comment.
RIP, one of the most charismatic wrestlers WWF ever had if it is true
RIP, one of the most charismatic wrestlers WWF ever had if it is true
Absolutely possible. They speculated the same thing with Eddie Guerrero. All that steroid usage does permanent damage to the heart, but even so, it's way too early to speculate.
This is just unbelievable.
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
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he used lots and lots of anabolics back in the day and those enlarge the left ventricle significantly, leading to deficiency in how the heart works as a pump
RIP, one of the most charismatic wrestlers WWF ever had if it is true
Absolutely possible. They speculated the same thing with Eddie Guerrero. All that steroid usage does permanent damage to the heart, but even so, it's way too early to speculate.
This is just unbelievable.
I was wondering if something was up...he looked red as a cherry last night when he walked down to ringside and it took some effort to even get to the ring
He looked fine at the Hall of fame and has a beautiful wife and 2 cute young daughters
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
I bet you that's going to be a theory. That Warrior and others knew his time was coming so they inducted him to the HOF and he was gave essentially a final goodbye on Monday Night Raw.
But I just don't see it. His family looked so incredibly happy last night, as did he. I just don't see this as anything premeditated or that he knew his time was near because of some illness. I just don't know how they could keep that under wraps.
I don't know maybe I'm reading to much into that.
People are insensitive assholes. No shock there
But he is in great shape and he even said he went to the gym daily... I hope it wasn't drugs or a suicide...
We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters.
But he is in great shape and he even said he went to the gym daily... I hope it wasn't drugs or a suicide...
My guess is massive heart attack...lots of wrestlers who took massive amounts of steroids go that way
And anak I wasn't being an asshole I was just relaying what I had just read
And anak I wasn't being an asshole I was just relaying what I had just read
I never said you were
Phil there's a YouTube of him on Arsenio Hall circa 1990, I'm guessing that's what you're referring to...and he is insane, flipping the couches and can't sit still. Can only imagine what he was like live
A unique performer. And living to 54...sad to say but that's a pretty long life for the lifestyle these guys lived. Which is a real shame, fond memories of watching warrior wrestle as a kid
Quote:
Seeing him return for the first time in forever, burying the proverbial hatchet, and then literally the day after Raw he's dead.
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
I bet you that's going to be a theory. That Warrior and others knew his time was coming so they inducted him to the HOF and he was gave essentially a final goodbye on Monday Night Raw.
But I just don't see it. His family looked so incredibly happy last night, as did he. I just don't see this as anything premeditated or that he knew his time was near because of some illness. I just don't know how they could keep that under wraps.
Suicide is definitely possible, as it is in every death where you don't know how someone died. And in his case definitely more likely.
But if anyone comes up with that theory you posted and actually believes it then they need to be put in a mental institution. Basically saying that the WWE knew he was going to commit suicide so instead of getting him help they inducted him into the hall of fame and then put him on raw. What a ridiculous "theory"
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By Marc Middleton
Apr 9, 2014 - 12:31:52 AM
- Vince McMahon tweeted the following about The Ultimate Warrior's death:
"We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters."
Details are still unknown in regards to how Warrior passed away but word going around is that it was from natural causes.
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In comment 11612061 Kyle said:
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Seeing him return for the first time in forever, burying the proverbial hatchet, and then literally the day after Raw he's dead.
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
I bet you that's going to be a theory. That Warrior and others knew his time was coming so they inducted him to the HOF and he was gave essentially a final goodbye on Monday Night Raw.
But I just don't see it. His family looked so incredibly happy last night, as did he. I just don't see this as anything premeditated or that he knew his time was near because of some illness. I just don't know how they could keep that under wraps.
Suicide is definitely possible, as it is in every death where you don't know how someone died. And in his case definitely more likely.
But if anyone comes up with that theory you posted and actually believes it then they need to be put in a mental institution. Basically saying that the WWE knew he was going to commit suicide so instead of getting him help they inducted him into the hall of fame and then put him on raw. What a ridiculous "theory"
I don't think they knew he would kill himself I think the suggestion is maybe Warrior and WWE knew his health was not that great.
But maybe not very good reports regarding the health of his heart
Quote:
In comment 11612061 Kyle said:
Quote:
Seeing him return for the first time in forever, burying the proverbial hatchet, and then literally the day after Raw he's dead.
It doesn't HAVE to be suicide, but it's not an unlikely or outlandish possibility.
I bet you that's going to be a theory. That Warrior and others knew his time was coming so they inducted him to the HOF and he was gave essentially a final goodbye on Monday Night Raw.
But I just don't see it. His family looked so incredibly happy last night, as did he. I just don't see this as anything premeditated or that he knew his time was near because of some illness. I just don't know how they could keep that under wraps.
Suicide is definitely possible, as it is in every death where you don't know how someone died. And in his case definitely more likely.
But if anyone comes up with that theory you posted and actually believes it then they need to be put in a mental institution. Basically saying that the WWE knew he was going to commit suicide so instead of getting him help they inducted him into the hall of fame and then put him on raw. What a ridiculous "theory"
Not suicide but that he had a terminal illness and people knew he didn't have long to live. Again, it's not my theory, but I guarantee you it will be given the timing.
suicide was my thought as well, too much of a disturbing coincidence. I hope that's not the case, that would be horrible
Just heard a horrible rumor...please tell me @UltimateWarrior is ok ..,,,
Just heard a horrible rumor...please tell me @UltimateWarrior is ok ..,,,
From what I know, Warrior didn't have a great relationship with Nash or Hall. They never spoke well of each other. I think they patched things up. Warrior's second to last tweet was congratulating Scott Hall.
Just heard a horrible rumor...please tell me @UltimateWarrior is ok ..,,,
Man that is sad
Wade Keller @thewadekeller 2m
TMZ reports that Warrior collapsed Tues @ 5:50 while walking to his car at an Arizona hotel and was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead.
He's up there cutting promos and battling with the Macho Man right now
what comes up right before? Undertaker's first win in his streak.
Such a bizarre week for pro wrestling
Awful. RIP
what comes up right before? Undertaker's first win in his streak.
Such a bizarre week for pro wrestling
And if you look upthread...I mentioned that everyone who took part in that Macho Man-Warrior match is deceased, including the valets
what comes up right before? Undertaker's first win in his streak.
Such a bizarre week for pro wrestling
Very bizarre. Very sad.
Maybe this was too much for his heart.
R.I.P.
but no way, ultimate warrior was much more ripped.
one of the most imposing wrestlers of the WWF era.
RIP
Vince McMahon: "We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters.We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters."
Triple H: "Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters."
Stephanie McMahon: "Your strength of character is to be admired. There will never be anyone like you. Your spirit lives on in your family."
Hulk Hogan: "RIP WARRIOR. only love. HH"
Dwayne Johnson: "Loss always has a way of reminding us to live and love as greatly as we can. My prayers and strength to his family. RIP Ultimate Warrior."
Roddy Piper: "Tomorrow is promised to know one!! Enjoy every second, with a tool called love!! My love to The Warrior and family. RIP"
Jim Ross: "Sad to pass along the news that the Ultimate Warrior has died. Condolences to his wife & two, young daughters."
Daniel Bryan: "Heartbroken. My sincerest condolences go out to The Warrior's family. Seeing how much he loved his daughters and his wife this weekend...... makes it all the more heartbreaking. The Ultimate Warrior was my favorite as a kid, and getting to speak to him this weekend was one...... of my favorite moments. He was so nice to me. #RIPWarrior"
JBK: "Really saddened to hear about @UltimateWarrior passing away. RIP A tremendous legend."
Seth Rollins:"I just don't know what to say....Warrior was a huge part of why I fell in love with pro wrestling...Life is too damn short."
Natalya: "Thoughts and prayers go out to Warrior and his family. Incredibly sad to hear this news."
Zeb Colter "Stunned to hear of the Ultimate Warrior passing...I managed UW and Sting when they were both starting out. RIP Jim. Peace be with you. @WWE"
Paige: "In complete shock. Thankful I got to shake his hand yesterday. So sad. #RIPUltimateWarrior"
Kevin Nash: "So happy I embraced Warrior with a hug when we saw each other backstage Saturday night.My heart goes out to his family.Always Believe."
Curtis Axel: "Shocked and very saddened to hear about Ultimate Warrior passing. Prayers go out to his family! RIP. Loss for words..."
Cody Rhodes: "I am privileged to have spent some time with Warrior on Sunday and shake his hand. Rest in peace."
The Bella Twins: "In such shock right now... Prayers go out to Warrior, his wife & little girls. What an amazing man he was. He will always be remembered. RIP"
Adam Rose: RIP Ultimate Warrior. You will always be remembered.
Justin Roberts: "He was the 1st superstar I met as a kid/got me hooked on WWE.Proudly wore his jacket my entire childhood.RIP Warrior http://instagram.com/p/mjiWP3scG6/"
Zack Ryder: "Im in shock. The Ultimate Warrior has passed away. I just met him yesterday. RIP. Ill always believe!!!"
Dallas Page: "Deeply saddened to find out about the passing of #WWE LEGEND, @UltimateWarrior. You & your legacy will FOREVER be remembered in our hearts!"
Chris Jericho: "Devastated to hear of the passing of @UltimateWarrior. He was a childhood hero of mine & he vs @HulkHogan WM6 is still one of the best ever"
Trish Stratus: "Sad to hear news of Warrior passing. Just seeing him happy last 3 days - it puts life in perspective that it can't be taken for granted. RIP"
Randy Orton: "My thoughts and prayers go out to the Warrior family. It breaks my heart after seeing how proud his girls are of their father. Stay strong"
Summer Rae: "Just after this weekend,after last night? Im shocked & so saddened to hear of the passing of @UltimateWarrior.My prayers are with his family"
Jason Albert: "Glad I was able to shake the man's hand and speak for a moment. My thoughts and prayers to your wife and two daughters.RIP #UltimateWarrior"
Jake Roberts: "Deeply saddened. We just had a great talk & buried a senseless hatchet. Talked working together. RIP Warrior. Taking solace we made peace."
David Otunga: "I'm saddened to hear of Warrior's passing. He gave such an impassioned speech at HOF. He was one of my childhood heroes. #RIPUltimateWarrior"
Vickie Guerrero: "So saddened by the news of the death of Warrior"
Cameron: "An icon and hero has passed! Can't believe I just met and saw this man yesterday!God has gained a true gem and angel #ripultimatewarrior! "
Yoshi Tatsu: "I'm really shocked and saddened to hear the passing of one of the my heros Ultimate Warrior ...Rest in peace Ultimate Warrior..."
Emma: "So shocked and saddened by the news of the ultimate warrior passing! #RIP"
Dave Bautista: "After all these years I finally got 2 tell him that me shaking the ropes was an homage 2 him. Blessed to have had that moment. #onelife"
Jeff Jarrett: "Life is short... Live life to the fullest... #RIPUltimateWarrior"
Magnus: "Absolutely tragic. I'm devastated by the news of Ultimate Warrior's death. Truly one of a kind & an inspiration. #RIPWarrior"
Joey Mercury: "I think it's awesome that in his final days, COUNTLESS people got to express to him what a positive impact he made on them, me included."
Matt Hardy: "The news of Ultimate Warrior passing away immediately after returning to the @WWE is unbelievable-I'm shocked. My condolences to his family."
Rob Van Dam: "#RIPUltimateWarrior pic.twitter.com/9guvY4AerG"
sucks
On a slightly different note, I saw Roddy Piper on some reality TV show the other day and was surprised at how much smaller he was. The human body is not meant to have the amount of muscle these guys have.
I can't believe Vince is still going. He was the biggest roider of the bunch.
Rest in peace, all the little warriors will remember you fondly!
Warrior's squash of Honky Tonk Man is one of the great moments of my youth.
"Get me someone out here to wrestle, I don't care who it is."
DA NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH, DA DA DA, NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH NAH!
"wait a minute, wait a minute..."
"That's the music, brother!"
i remember as a kid watching Wm6 and just hoping Hogan would beat him.. He lost and was just in awe of the guy. Big, ran everywhere... just a force... i wasnt smart enough to see how he was as a wrestler but he was just cool.
sucks that he was one of the few that got out for his kids and his life. His kids are young too..
The passing of the Ultimate Warrior, literally hours after he returned home to Arizona following his first appearance for WWE since 1996 on Raw, is going to either be remembered as one of those tragic coincidences or a truly amazing final chapter in his life.
In a way, that's sort of fitting for the life and the career that Warrior led. There was no middle ground for him, no grey area. You were either on his side or you were against him - and it didn't matter if you were Vince McMahon, Hulk Hogan or an independent promoter....if Warrior didn't feel he was being treated fairly or was being represented fairly, you were going to suffer his wrath, publicly and privately.
That led to a lot of people seeing Warrior in one of two ways - the man who stood up for himself and would walk away from anything...or the man who was impossible to deal with. The reality is that he was both, sometimes at the same time, but he was also someone who was that way because he had a strong belief in himself, his family and his legacy - and that is something that has to be admired, especially today.
I spent about six hours with Warrior in a hotel room once in October 2004, filming a shoot interview that was later released by Ringside Collectibles. Off camera, he was warm and funny and friendly, even though he was very tired from his flight to NYC. His primary concerns were to call his family during every break.
Once the camera turned on, there was an intensity to him and on many points during the filming (and on a lot that was never seen - Warrior had final approval over the final cut, of course: he was Warrior) we argued about different points. He even at one point mocked me for asking him about different memories, which made his WWE Hall of Fame speech pretty amusing to me as he went on and on and on with what else? Memories.
At times, on camera, it felt like I was going to war with the man, but anytime the cameras were off, he was nothing but friendly and happy, especially when his long-time friend Jim Powers showed up. That visit was especially awesome, since the segment we had just filmed featured Warrior's statement that he didn't keep in contact with anyone from the business. Five minutes later, he's hugging Powers. Why? Warrior knew how he wanted to be presented on the DVD.
When the interview was over, Warrior asked for my information. When I left the hotel room, I could hear him very unhappy complaining about the line of questioning I used at times. I knew right then I'd never hear from him. I never did, but at a signing the next day, he greeted me warmly. That was just how he was. The experience led to one of the most unique interviews ever released on DVD: a dare anyone to find another where the interviewer and the subject are almost at odds the entire time. It remains in my personal "top ten" things I've done around wrestling just because of the surreal nature of the discussion.
I was often asked a lot over the years about what Warrior was really like and the filming of that DVD and it was certainly an interesting day. There were times when I would ask a question (he had demanded them in advance) and he had a great answer, but when I asked a follow-up, he would stare at me as if I had broken the rules before finally giving one. If you watched his WWE Hall of Fame speech, there were times when he seemed to lose his train of thought before coming back to his point - that was the same Warrior I met in 2004.
At the Hall, just like that day with me, he was focused and intense, and if you knocked him off that focus, he wasn't happy about it and needed a minute to refocus himself and his thoughts. The guy envisioned what he wanted in his head for himself and how he was to be portrayed and if he was off even a small point from what he wanted, there was going to be hell to pay. I can and do respect that.
For all the talk of the guy not being a great in-ring worker or hard to deal with, he was in the top echelon of all time great professional wrestling personalities. He went from being just another muscle-bound rookie in wrestling scene full of them to the man that handed the Hulkamania-era Hulk Hogan his first-ever clean pinfall loss in the WWF. He was undoubtedly part of the trilogy of the WWF's great three babyfaces of their first decade - Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage and Ultimate Warrior - that trio shaped the enjoyment, dreams and happiness of a lot of wrestling fans....and Warrior was the only guy to pin them both at Wrestlemania.
Anyone who denies that he was an icon or a legend or anything else in pro wrestling is completely insane - Warrior hit a level that very few ever have...and very few ever will...especially in the short amount of time Warrior accomplished the feat.
It absolutely sucks that he died when he did. The idea that this man left his home to come back and finally embrace his past - bringing his children to see what Daddy used to do - and never returned to his home again is pretty damn jarring and if anything, should be a reminder to us all that nothing is ever, ever promised to us.
It's also absolutely insane to think of the timing of his passing. If it had been 96 hours earlier, there would have been no WWE Hall of Fame speech that brought some around me to tears in New Orleans. Had it happened on Sunday, it would happened the same day as Wrestlemania. 48 hours sooner, it could have happened before, at or after Monday Night Raw.
In some ways, we were watching Warrior give his own eulogy. Again, you never know. Nothing is a given for any of us.
Wrestling fans who love Warrior owe a great deal of thanks to Triple H, who spearheaded the drive to bring Warrior back into the WWE family, much as he did Bruno Sammartino a year before. Had it not been HHH trying to put out old fires and give wrestling fans what they wanted, had it not been HHH wanting important figures in the history of the business back in the WWE fold, there never would have been that final moment of farewell, that moment for Warrior fans to enjoy and that crazy picture of Vince McMahon and Warrior smiling together.
Don't believe me? As any die-hard Randy Savage fan what they would have given for that sort of closure and happiness.
It would have been very interesting to see what could have come for Warrior and WWE in the years to come. His appearance on Raw was as much about closing the door on his career as the Hall was. He was never going to let himself be one of the older guys appearing in a silly Wrestlemania vignette. He was more likely going to be presented like Bruno Sammartino was - this legend that WWE is lucky to have had blazing the trail and lucky to have around today.
Well, for two days, WWE and its fans were extremely lucky to have Warrior back.
The story of Warrior is going to be one that is told for many, many decades to come. There were the early days in Memphis and Mid-South with Sting. There were the Dingo Warrior days with the Von Erichs, who Warrior loved deeply. There was the first WWF run that saw him go from an unknown working B-shows to winning the Intercontinental title in 30 seconds to main eventing Wrestlemania VI before 60,000 fans to "retiring" Randy Savage. There was the first break-up with WWF over money, which as court documents would later show, WWF was willing to give him before things went sour. There was a return a year later before the inevitable change in the landscape in the business as Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels began to be pushed while larger characters were let go for different reasons that all began with the Dr. Zahorian trial in the early 1990s. There was the 1996 return, during a time period where WWF really needed as many strong characters as possible as WCW breathed down their neck, but heads began knocking and Warrior quit and went home. There was the WCW run that was as awful as anything and really just an excuse for Hulk Hogan to get his old loss back - one that was so bad that Warrior admitted on the WWE DVD release that just came out that if he had known what the deal was, no amount of money would have brought him back.
There were lawsuits. There were rumors of multiple Warriors (false). There were rumors he died and was replaced (again, false, although eerily sad given the news of today).
In the end though, Warrior best summed up his career with his appearances this past weekend. His character was one that inspired and one that gave fans something to believe in. I don't think anyone could ask for a better legacy than that.
Always Believe.
always believe
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I was watching RAW Monday night with my 10-year old. The guy look shaky in the ring. Guess the lifestyle finally caught up with him.
RIP Warrior
It has actualy changed a lot...a lot of the new guys do not drink or party like the older guys used to...the business has changed a great deal...the steroid policy is a lot stricter nowadays...
WWE pays for rehab for guys hwo need no matter when they were last in the company or for how many years...Scott Hall said WWE paid for 22 rehab stints...
quick question since you seem so into the industry, when was the last time Warrior fought?
RIP Warrior. I don't know what you were watching but he didn't look vibrant nor healthy on Raw. I watched it was sad goes he looked terrible, he looked like he wasn't Gina even make it back to the locker room.
I swear my first thoughts on Sunday when I saw him was, "is he having a heart attack?"
He kept grabbing his chest as he was introduced.
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The younger generation is very likely using HGH though, given what I see, also very likely the Rock and Triple H are using it, for that matter.
His entrance to the ring was a show in itself.Even if he just flexed for 5 minutes and ripped at the ropes a few times, worth the price of admission.
That tribute to his daughters at the HOF ceremonies is all I can picture at the moment.
Now double bummed!!
RIP WARRIOR!
I kept thinking, especially on RAW, that he didn't quite look 100% and was having trouble breathing or something, and I thought out loud jesus I hope he doesn't have a heart attack.
So sad. Prayers to his family.
I was lucky enough to cover an event that he spoke at at my alma mater in 2004 when he was doing the whole conservative bit. While he had strong opinions he mind was fascinating in that he wanted people to think for themselves.
Always trying to spread inspiration. To spread belief.
His speech on RAW was fitting. RIP Warrior.
Totally sucks he died, but sadly it was probably self inflicted to give us a great show.
Great performer, but what a lunatic.
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We talked,both forgave each other,we hugged ,we shook hands as we told each other I love you,I am so sad,God bless his beautiful family HH
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We talked,both forgave each other,we hugged ,we shook hands as we told each other I love you,I am so sad,God bless his beautiful family HH
i am glad he could make ammends with Vince and a lot of the boys in the back before he passed...there is a picture on Twitter of him and Nash hugging and those 2 had a big beef as well...
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How many wrestlers need to die before someone stpes in and does something? Most f'd up industry in America.
quick question since you seem so into the industry, when was the last time Warrior fought?
I believe his last match was in 2008 against Orlando Jordan
The younger generation is very likely using HGH though, given what I see, also very likely the Rock and Triple H are using it, for that matter.
And Cena definitely takes something and I know he's denied it and laughed it off, but the proof is in the pudding.
I laugh whenever I hear/read about their drug testing policy.
Can you imagine if that would have happened?
He was on live TV for these last three days in some form and then the next day he passes away. WWE got very lucky with that situation.
Aside from the fat guys, they were pretty much ALL on something 20-30 years ago. And those that weren't using PEDs were either on hard recreational drugs or abusing pain killers.
I laugh whenever I hear/read about their drug testing policy.
Then you really are not paying attention...
Steroid and drug abuse was a lot worse 20-30 years ago then it is now...
The wrestlers now are more into video games then they are drugs and steroids and the guys who are on drugs are immediately suspended...
Look at Chris Masters for instance WWE loved him and thought he was one of their up and coming stars but kept testing positive and eventually released...
Evan Bourne keeps getting busted for Pot and has not been seen in a long long time...
Do guys still use steroids? absolutely but it is not nearly as bad as it was back then...
and the drug abuse is a lot better than it was...
I laugh whenever I hear/read about their drug testing policy.
Certainly was true in the territories and in WCW. You had guys who looked like your uncle, all flabby and everything, wrestle, whereas in the WWE/F, you'd have muscle-jacked guys who looked like the Terminator. Vince back in the day gave out 'roids like they were candy and that's why many took them. Certainly the 3 biggest guys back then, Hogan, Macho and Warrior, took them. Later on, Rock, HHH and Austin (Debra said in an interview he took them, which contributed to his abuse). And now, you know for a fact (except for Cena who I mentioned before is all but certain to take something. He's a liar) that Orton, Batista and Cena all took or take something. Obviously, if the truth came out and Cena was revealed to have taken something, it would send shockwaves throughout the WWE and all the kiddies would be upset that their hero cheated. There is no doubt in my mind that the WWE is keeping it all under wraps for the sake of PR. But his body and attitude aside, the fact that Cena can come back with such serious injuries so fast...I mean he's either really Superman or he's taking something. As long as the WWE prevents bad press or another Benoit situation, they'll always look the other way when it comes to guys taking steroids.
HGH is technically allowed and as far as I know, isn't tested for in the WWE...Plus, you can take it with a doctor's prescription.
I think this piece from the Post does a fine job of summing up Warrior's appeal and meaning, while not pretending he was anything he wasn't.
Not that one would expect that sniveling little cunt Cowherd to understand
Link - ( New Window )
...and forgive me here...
...aren't we talking about a pretty well documented racist and homophobic piece of shit here?
...and forgive me here...
...aren't we talking about a pretty well documented racist and homophobic piece of shit here?
My sentiments exactly. Unfortunately, he was both. Check my post a few above your post.
Why the fuck do people subject themselves to that.
RIP Ultimate Warrior you will be missed.
I watched it last night and it was tough to watch. His daughters really seemed to love him a lot. And now he's gone.
Ultimate Warrior looked like he was on the verge of a medical catastrophe all weekend -- sweaty and stressed, like he was about to "burst at the seams" ... eyewitnesses tell TMZ.
According to sources who were with Warrior this past weekend, the WWE legend looked like he was in constant pain ... sweaty and looked very uncomfortable, like he was choking on his tie. It was apparent to everyone ... something was seriously off.
Another warning sign -- when Warrior did his signature rope shake after his big speech on Monday Night Raw, he looked weak ... and people around him noticed.
One eyewitness put it this way ... "We all felt like he looked like he was going to blow a gasket. It was pretty easy to see."
It makes Warrior's speech on Monday Night Raw even more ominous ... "Every man's heart one day beats its final beat. His lungs breathe a final breath." 24 hours later he was dead.
More details are coming in regarding the final days of the Ultimate Warrior.
WWE had a camera crew following Warrior and his family around during the entire weekend. The footage was shot for a future project looking at Warrior's return to the WWE Universe.
Warrior and his family did not stay at the Roosevelt Hotel with the rest of the WWE talent. The company rented a house locally for Warrior and his family and had a car service shuttle them to and from the Hall of Fame ceremony, WrestleMania and RAW.
According to sources who were backstage at the Hall of Fame ceremony, Warrior was very friendly when approached, but also quiet and somewhat reserved. Several people commented on Warrior sweating a lot and appearing physically frail, despite his muscular stature.
TMZ.com reports that an eye witness saw Warrior clutching his chest moments before he collapsed at the Gainey Suites Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Warrior suffered a "catastrophic medical event" and so far, there is no evidence of drugs or alcohol playing a factor in his death. An investigation is underway and the Maricopa County Medical Examiner will be conducting an autopsy on Thursday.
Just a guess, but James Helwig will probably be classified as undetermined right now and require an autopsy. The only way that would be bypassed is if there is medical documentation that supports a natural death at this time. Then his PCP will be required by law to sign the death certificate.
I wouldn't expect answers any time soon because tox and all that would have to be done with his background. Probably 6-12 months for a death certificate with a cause and manner of death.
Funny thing is that this would have been my case if I didn't switch professions recently.
So maybe it was expected...maybe it happened sooner than everyone thought, but perhaps they knew Warrior had only a short amount of time to live.
To be fair... Those wound up being prophetic words.
She talked about the Ultimate Warrior death claiming that steroids have kiled so many wrestlers then named Owen Hart as someone who died of steroids...
also named a couple of others one died of cancer...
She throws slander at the guys who died because of the steroid use...
Nancy Grace YOU FAT DUMB BITCH I beat the fuck out of you talk bad about my wrestling brother. GO FUCK YOURSELF YOU DEAD DOG WHORE
The Iron Sheik @the_ironsheik 10h
Hello @NancyGraceHLN you dead dog whore GO FUCK YOURSELF
Zeb Colter @WWEZeb 7h
If anybody receives an email entitled NANCY GRACE NUDE, do not open it. It's not a virus. It really is Nancy Grace nude. @NancyGraceHLN @WWE
Zeb Colter @WWEZeb 11h
#boycottnancy @NancyGraceHLN RETWEETS REQUESTED. Wrong fan base to piss off Nancy.
Zeb Colter @WWEZeb 11h
DEPORT @NancyGraceHLN. RETWEETS REQUESTED. @HLN @WWE @JCLayfield @steveaustinBSR
Jim Cornette @TheJimCornette 10m
Before @NancyGraceHLN became a curse to the eyes/ears on TV, she was a LAWYER! Double-header of people you wouldn't want to associate with!
Jim Cornette @TheJimCornette 22m
@gailkimITSME @NancyGraceHLN The blowhard had, among others, Mark Curtis and Owen Hart on a list of wrestlers who died "because of drugs"!
Retweeted by Jim Cornette
Tony Bravo @RingsideRants 8m
@TheJimCornette @NancyGraceHLN she's also lied several times about her fiance's murder to embellish her own image. Real class act!
It's a shame the WWE gets bashed every time a wrestler dies yet no one talks about all the stuff they do for Make A Wish... Sickening
Mind you Cowherd loves shows like the Sopranos and similar as 'intelligent' and engaging.
PS. I listened to Cowherd b/c the Alternative was Jay Mohr.
Pretty nice of McMahon to honor Warrior's contract to help his family out. Considering all the bad blood, it's impressive.
Mind you Cowherd loves shows like the Sopranos and similar as 'intelligent' and engaging.
PS. I listened to Cowherd b/c the Alternative was Jay Mohr.
Mohr's show is great, and he mentioned the exact same sopranos thing when talking about cowherd's hate for wrestling.
During the first hour of the broadcast, the following message was scrolled across the bottom of the screen which confirmed that the tribute would indeed take place as previously reported:
"The WWE family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. WWE sends its sincere condolences to Warrior's family, friends, and fans. This Monday night's RAW will be dedicated to the Ultimate Warrior where we will pay tribute and honor his memory."