Wyatt, whose real name was Windham Rotunda, died “unexpectedly,” according to an article on the WWE website that did not mention a cause of death.
“WWE is saddened to learn that Windham Rotunda, also known as Bray Wyatt, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 24, at age 36,” WWE said. “WWE extends its condolences to Rotunda’s family, friends and fans.”
Wyatt, the 2017 WWE champion, was also known as “The Fiend.” His last televised performance came at the 2023 Royal Rumble.
“Known for his captivating performances and incredible in-ring presence, Wyatt was a defining superstar of his generation,” WWE said.
Wyatt was the son of Mike and Stephanie Rotunda.
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Wyatt’s grandfather Robert Deroy Windham (Blackjack Mulligan), father, and two of his uncles (Barry and Kendall Windham) all wrestled in WWE. His grandfather also played college football at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and saw preseason action for the New York Jets.
Wyatt redshirted on the Troy football team in 2007, meaning his participation was delayed in order to extend the timeframe he was eligible to play for the team.
‘Wheel of Fortune’ solve attempt has WWE stars Xavier Woods, Drew McIntyre fighting back chuckles
WWE SmackDown advertised the return of Bray Wyatt to television amid speculation of a potentially convoluted “Wyatt 6” stable.
Eva Marie recently posted a video teasing her involvement in the faction, which has been linked to the likes of Liv Morgan, Bo Dallas, Karrion Kross, Scarlett, Braun Strowman Joe Gacy and basically anybody who has ever shared a catering table with Wyatt.
SmackDown also advertised the return of LA Knight, who took on Månsôör, Kofi Kingston vs. Sami Zayn and a Fatal 4-Way between Sheamus, Karrion Kross, Ricochet and Solo Sikoa for a future shot at the Intercontinental Championship.
Last week’s broadcast of Smackdown garnered 2.243 million viewers.
WWE SmackDown Results on October 14, 2022
Sami Zayn def. Kofi Kingston
Braun Strowman def. James Maverick and Brian Thomas
LA Knight def. Månsôör
WWE SmackDown Ratings
October 7, 2022 | 2.243 million
September 30, 2022 | 2207 million
September 23, 2022 | 2.535 million
September 16, 2022 | 2.212 million
September 9, 2022 | 2.367 million
WWE SmackDown Venue: Smoothie King Center (New Orleans, La.)
Before walking out, Sami Zayn had a fun phone conversation with Roman Reigns, who continues to mandate that Zayn keeps Jey Uso in check.
I was surprised Sami Zayn won this match—with help from Jey Uso—because I expect the Usos to break the record by beating The New Day. This didn’t do much to build that match up should it happen.
Backstage, Rey Mysterio told Triple H “I quit.” The two discussed behind closed doors.
Braun Strowman def. James Maverick and Brian Thomas
Braun Strowman and Omos is shaping up to be an entertaining match, no matter what an independent wrestling fan will tell you.
Following Braun Strowman’s win over local competitors, MVP and Omos appeared ringside to call out Strowman. Based on Bobby Lashley’s recent loss (and future loss to Brock Lesnar), and Kofi Kingston’s loss earlier tonight, Braun Strowman has to be considered an overwhelming favorite against Omos. Brothers are quietly struggling in the Triple H Era, unfortunately.
LA Knight def. Månsôör
Michael Cole noted LA Knight filed for divorce from his sister, which I didn’t even know was possible.
LA Knight said “let me talk to you,” and you could hear Mace say “I hate it when he says that.”
LA Knight promptly turned heel after a squash win, but whether or not fans will connect with his Attitude Era gimmick remains to be seen.
Damage CTRL def. Raquel Rodriguez, Shotzi and Roxanne Perez
Wade Barrett explicitly said “do not miss NXT XT this Tuesday” as WWE continues to promote its showdown against Tuesday’s AEW Dynamite.
Bayley won the match for her team by countering a counter to the Roseplant and pinning Roxanne Perez. Those who weren’t familiar with Roxanne won’t be particularly excited to see NXT after her debut loss.
Rey Mysterio def. Sheamus, Solo Sikoa and Ricochet
Fans were much more into the tease of Ricochet vs. Rey Mysterio than they were with Sheamus vs. Solo Sikoa.
Sheamus connected with 26 Beats of the Bodhran on Solo Sikoa.
Rey Mysterio is now a SmackDown star—to get away from his son—but I fully expect Dominik Mysterio to interfere in his mach against Gunther.
Bray Wyatt Returns
Bray Wyatt walked out to new theme music, which was great, no mask and another loud ovation. Midway through a babyface promo, thanking fans for their support and noting that he lost two people close to him, Bray Wyatt was interrupted by what appeared to be his alter ego. The Titantron mask told Bray to come with him, and says his “life is done.”
The mask said to forget the future and the past and tells him he has no idea. He says he’ll find out soon. It was a short, and mostly underwhelming, return after a two-hour wait.
