Opinions

The Incomparable Bray Wyatt – His Talents Were Undeniable

Mark Robbins

Wrestling has lost one of the most unique minds in its storied history. Bray Wyatt, at just 36 years young, has passed away.

It feels surreal typing those words out.

I took a brief break from wrestling several years back, keeping an eye on the product, but not actively watching for the first time since being a toddler. One of the first wrestler’s that caught my eye when I began watching again was Bray Wyatt. He was deep in his “cult leader” run and I just found his work to be incredibly compelling at that time. This character was unlike anything I had ever seen before, and Bray’s dedication to the role and impeccable performance was indicative of a once in a generation talent.

The evolution from Wyatt Family patriarch to the Fiend should go down as one of the most successful character reintroductions in wrestling history. The *Firefly Fun House” match with John Cena at WrestleMania was truly a unique experience that honestly should have been the formula the company used moving forward with his creative, but that’s a conversation for a different time.

Of course, how could we forget his return at last year’s “Extreme Rules” PLE? The QR codes leading up to the show, the fun house characters coming alive, scattered across the arena, and of course, the introduction of “Uncle Howdy.” Regardless of how you might feel about the execution, it’s clear Bray had a vision that he was determined to show the world. Unfortunately, his vision will have to live on in the minds of his millions of fans worldwide as we ask ourselves what may have been.

Life is so cruel, so unforgiving at times, that we rarely take time to reflect on the good things we live through, especially when faced with tragedy. I feel honored to have been able to experience such a captivating career in real time.

Bray Wyatt’s passion for the business of professional wrestling was inspirational, and his talents, undeniable.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Rotunda family at this incredibly difficult time. I hope you are able to find some peace in your sorrows.