The wrestling world mourns the passing of Terry Brunk, alias Sabu, who died on May 11, 2025, aged 60. A hardcore wrestling fixture, Sabu left behind a legacy forged in blood, barbed wire, and stunning danger.
Born into Wrestling Royalty
Sabu was born on December 12, 1964, in Staten Island, New York, of Lebanese, Irish, and German descent. Trained by his legendary uncle, The Sheik (Ed Farhat), Sabu’s professional wrestling career started in 1985. At first promoted as “Sabu the Elephant Boy,” he abandoned the nickname and created a terrifying image that would last for decades.
He gained international recognition in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he was a two-time World Heavyweight Champion. His weapon-intensive, high-risk style defined ECW’s violent look during the 1990s. Sabu also won the ECW World Television Title and the Tag Team titles three times, squaring off against icons like Tazz, The Sandman, and Rob Van Dam in classic bouts.
WWE and Beyond
In 2006, Sabu signed with WWE when they reinstated the ECW brand. He wrestled at WrestleMania 23, fighting as an ECW Original. Although his stint with WWE was brief, it made him a mainstream name. Sabu also fought in WCW, TNA, AAA, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling, earning a cult following wherever he performed.
In 2023, Sabu appeared in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), such as in a memorable special enforcer role in a Chris Jericho vs. Adam Cole match. His last match took place in April 2025, against Joey Janela, ending a career that lasted for four decades.
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A Legacy that Lives Forever
After his death, AEW and WWE released emotional statements, labelling Sabu as a “pioneer” of hardcore wrestling. Taz, one of his all-time greatest opponents, stated, “I would not have had the career I have had if it wasn’t for Sabu.” Rob Van Dam paid him tribute by doing Sabu’s signature pointing gesture.
Known as “the suicidal, homicidal, genocidal, death–defying maniac,” Sabu was more than just a wrestler—he was an icon of rebellion and fire. Although passed on, his legacy will forever fuel the hardcore attitude of wrestling’s future generations.
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