The professional wrestling world was hit with sad news as it learned that Terry Brunk, known across wrestling as Sabu, passed away at the age of 60. Sabu was known as one of the most innovative wrestlers of his time, especially during his run in ECW.
Details around his passing are yet to be confirmed.
Sabu wrestled in his retirement match during WrestleMania weekend when he defeated Joey Janela in a no-rope barbed wire match. That was his first match since 2021, and brought to an end a career that spanned 40 years. Several of Sabu's peers posted on social media as news spread about his passing.
"Breaks my heart," said AEW commentator Taz, who worked with Sabu extensively during their time in ECW. "I would not have had the career that I've been blessed to have if it wasn't for Sabu. That man got me over, and he did not have to get me over."
Sorry, my words are a little frazzled in this vid, I am trying to speak from my heart…I dunno what else to say. #RIPSabu pic.twitter.com/o6ehKa0IjK
— taz (@OfficialTAZ) May 11, 2025
Sabu and Taz were linked to one of the most historic feuds in ECW and perhaps all of wrestling. The battled in the late 90s when ECW was pushing as the third major promotion in the business. Sabu and Rob Van Dam were three time ECW tag team champions, forming one of the most popular duos of their time and helping put Rob Van Dam on the map. Van Dam paid respect to Sabu by posting just a finger pointing to the sky, which was Sabu's iconic in-ring pose.
☝🏼
— Rob Van Dam (@TherealRVD) May 11, 2025
"WWE is saddened to learn that Terry Brunk, known to wrestling fans as Sabu, has passed away," WWE posted on Instagram. "WWE extends its condolences to Sabu's family, friends, and fans."
During his time in the ring, Sabu was a multiple-time champion. He held the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship, IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship, FTW Championship, ECW World Heavyweight Championship, and several more. He was trained by The Sheik and known or his triple jump moonsaults that he'd kick up a notch by adding in chairs and other weapons.
Daily DDT also expresses its condolences to Sabu's family, friends, and fans. For more news about all things professional wrestling, stick to Daily DDT.