The wrestling world is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic and fearless performers. Terry Brunk, better known by his ring name Sabu, passed away on May 11, 2025, at the age of 60. Renowned for his high-risk maneuvers and hardcore wrestling style, Sabu left an indelible mark on the industry, particularly during his time with Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). His death comes just weeks after his final match, leaving fans and fellow wrestlers reflecting on his remarkable career and contributions to professional wrestling.
AEW and 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. pic.twitter.com/JpgbYj2KKl
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) May 11, 2025
Born on December 12, 1964, in Staten Island, New York, Terry Brunk was destined for the wrestling world. He was the nephew of Ed Farhat, known as The Sheik, a legendary figure in professional wrestling. Under his uncle’s tutelage, Brunk adopted the ring name Sabu and began his wrestling career in 1985. The influence of The Sheik was evident in Sabu’s hardcore wrestling style, which would become his trademark throughout his career.
Sabu gained prominence in the 1990s with ECW, where he became a pioneer of hardcore wrestling. His matches were characterized by the use of tables, chairs, barbed wire, and high-flying maneuvers that thrilled audiences. Sabu’s fearless approach earned him the moniker “The Suicidal, Homicidal, Genocidal, Death-Defying Maniac.” During his time in ECW, he secured two ECW World Heavyweight Championships, one ECW World Television Championship, and three ECW World Tag Team Championships.
In 2006, Sabu joined WWE as part of the ECW brand revival. He competed in several high-profile matches, including a notable appearance at WrestleMania 23. Although his tenure with WWE was brief, it introduced his hardcore style to a broader audience. Beyond WWE and ECW, Sabu wrestled in various promotions worldwide, including TNA, WCW, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and AAA, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the sport.
Sabu’s intense wrestling style took a toll on his body over the years. In 2023, he experienced a medical emergency during the Squared Circle Expo in Indianapolis, leading to hospitalization. Despite ongoing health issues, Sabu continued to perform, demonstrating his dedication to wrestling. His final match occurred on April 18, 2025, against Joey Janela at a GCW event in Las Vegas, where he delivered a performance reminiscent of his prime.
The news of Sabu’s passing elicited an outpouring of tributes from the wrestling community. AEW acknowledged his contributions, stating, “From barbed wire battles to unforgettable high-risk moments, Sabu gave everything to professional wrestling.” WWE also paid homage, describing him as “a pioneer of hardcore wrestling.” Fellow wrestlers, including Taz and Rob Van Dam, expressed their sorrow and shared memories of working with Sabu, highlighting his influence and the void his passing leaves in the industry.
Sabu’s impact on professional wrestling is immeasurable. He pushed the boundaries of in-ring performance, inspiring a generation of wrestlers to embrace a more extreme style. His willingness to sacrifice his body for the sake of entertainment set a new standard for hardcore wrestling. Sabu’s legacy lives on through the countless performers he influenced and the unforgettable moments he created in the ring.
Sabu’s death marks the end of an era in professional wrestling. His fearless approach and commitment to pushing the limits of in-ring performance have left an indelible mark on the industry. As fans and wrestlers alike remember his contributions, Sabu’s legacy as a hardcore wrestling icon will continue to inspire and resonate within the wrestling community.
