This past week the pro wrestling world lost one of its most beloved performers, Windham Rotunda, better known to fans as Bray Wyatt. In the wake of his passing, WWE has held tributes on their programming that have seen the current roster and production team rallying together during this difficult time. One name that returned to the WWE fold to grieve the loss is Joseph Rudd, who played Erick Rowan, the white sheep mask-wearing member of The Wyatt Family, and currently goes by the name Erick Redbeard on the independent scene.
Just now, Rudd formally broke his silence on Instagram regarding Rotunda’s passing.
“Writing this down makes my soul foggy and my heart ache,” he began. “Over 12 years ago from the island of FCW we would talk of our mutual love of horror movies and music before embarking on this crazy journey that brought us around the world with Jon. In the process something happened, this family we portrayed weekly in the wrestling world became a real life bond.
“We spent more time together over the next few years than we would our own families. Strengthening our bond as we dealt with life trials and tribulations together. Eventually this family grew with the introduction of Adam. As did our love for one another. Life is sometimes unfair, I want to pick up the phone and talk to my brothers. For when I think of Windham It makes me think of Jon then the reality of the crazy truth that they are no longer with us.
“Though I know they are always listening and smiling. With their sudden passings I can not state enough how much they loved their families. My heart hurts for their kids, for Jojo for Amanda for their brothers and sisters or anyone lucky enough to call them a friend. I love you both so much. This is only Goodbye for Now, I will see you down the road.”
Haus of Wrestling sends its condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Windham Rotunda. We encourage you to buy some Bray Wyatt merchandise from WWE Shop, as all proceeds will go to his family.