The wrestling world mourns the loss of Terry Brunk, better known by his ring name Sabu, who passed away on May 11, 2025, at the age of 60. A pioneering figure in hardcore wrestling, Sabu’s innovative style and fearless performances left an indelible mark on the industry.
Death reason
Sabu, legendary hardcore wrestler, passed away on May 11, 2025, at the age of 60. While no official cause of death has been publicly confirmed, reports suggest he had been battling long-term health issues. His sudden passing shocked fans and the wrestling community, who mourned the loss of an icon.
Early Life and Wrestling Lineage
Born on December 12, 1964, in Staten Island, New York, Terry Brunk was introduced to wrestling by his uncle, Ed “The Sheik” Farhat, a wrestling icon known for his brutal style. Trained under The Sheik’s tutelage, Sabu adopted a persona that combined high-flying maneuvers with hardcore elements, setting the stage for a revolutionary career.
Rise to Prominence in ECW
Sabu gained fame in the 1990s with Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he became synonymous with hardcore wrestling. Dubbed the “Suicidal, Homicidal, Genocidal, Death–Defying Maniac,” he was known for his willingness to endure extreme pain for the sake of entertainment. His arsenal included signature moves like the Triple Jump Moonsault, Arabian Facebuster, and Arabian Skullcrusher.
During his ECW tenure, Sabu achieved significant success:
- ECW World Heavyweight Champion (2 times)
- ECW World Television Champion (1 time)
- ECW World Tag Team Champion (3 times)
His matches, often involving barbed wire, tables, and chairs, pushed the boundaries of professional wrestling and inspired a generation of performers.
International Ventures and WWE Stint
Beyond ECW, Sabu showcased his talents globally, competing in promotions like New Japan Pro-Wrestling, Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling, and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA). In 2006, he joined WWE’s ECW brand, participating in notable events such as WrestleMania 23. Although his WWE tenure was brief, it introduced his unique style to a broader audience.
Final Matches and Retirement
Even in his later years, Sabu remained active on the independent circuit. His final match took place on April 18, 2025, during GCW’s WrestleMania weekend event, where he faced Joey Janela. Less than two weeks later, he made a public appearance at the Tri-State Wrestling Alliance reunion show.
Tributes and Legacy
News of Sabu’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from the wrestling community. AEW honored him with a heartfelt message, stating, “From barbed wire battles to unforgettable high-risk moments, Sabu gave everything to professional wrestling.” Longtime friend and tag team partner Rob Van Dam paid homage with a simple yet poignant gesture, posting an index finger pointing upward—a nod to Sabu’s signature pose. Taz, another ECW alumnus, expressed deep sorrow, crediting Sabu for significantly influencing his career.
Remembering Sabu
Sabu’s contributions to professional wrestling are immeasurable. His fearless approach and innovative techniques redefined the hardcore genre, inspiring countless wrestlers worldwide. As fans and peers reflect on his legacy, Sabu will be remembered not only for his in-ring prowess but also for his unwavering dedication to the craft.
