WWE legend Booker T found out Bray Wyatt had died while live on air
WWE legend Booker T found out about the tragic passing of Bray Wyatt while live on air, having looked visibly upset as he was delivered the bombshell.
Windham Rotunda - also known as Bray Wyatt - died 'unexpectedly' on Thursday, 24 August.
He was a third-generation professional wrestler and was best known for his spell in the WWE (2009-2022), portraying the villainous leader of The Wyatt Family, alongside Wyatt Family members Luke Harper and Erick Rowan.
During his time with the WWE he become world champion on three occasions.
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Wrestling star Triple H had been the first to post about the devastating news on social media, saying: "Just received a call from WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda who informed us of the tragic news that our WWE family member for life Windham Rotunda - also known as Bray Wyatt - unexpectedly passed earlier today.
"Our thoughts are with his family and we ask that everyone respect their privacy at this time."
And it turns out Triple H’s post was even the way the news broke for WWE legend Booker T, who had been speaking on a podcast as the tweet came through.
The wrestling icon, whose real name is Booker T. Huffman Jr, had been on his Hall of Fame podcast stream when co-host Brad Gilmore said: “Um, oh my God. Um, this is happening in real time. I don’t even know if I should read this on the show, but this just came out from Triple H.”
Gilmore then proceeded to read out Triple H’s tweet in full, adding: “That just went out right as we were going on air.”
Huffman then asked: “You said Bray Wyatt’s passed away? Ah, man.”
He then took a deep sigh and looked noticeably saddened by the news, as Gilmore said: “I didn’t mean to drop that right there."
Many other big names from the wrestling world have paid tribute to Windham, including Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, who said alongside a photo: "I'm heartbroken over the news of Bray Wyatt’s passing.
"Always had tremendous respect and love for him and the Rotunda family.
"Loved his presence, promos, in ring work and connection with @wwe universe. Very unique, cool and rare character, which is hard to create in our crazy world of pro wrestling."
Mick Foley also wrote: "RIP BRAY WYATT. This is awful news, just terribly sad for his family, friends and fans.
"I thought so highly of Bray Wyatt, and was so flattered when he started using the mandible claw for his finisher.
"He was a true visionary; one of the most compelling presences that wrestling has ever seen. #RIPBray."
The Miz said: "The world lost a good one today. Bray Wyatt’s story telling ability along with his unique creativity in the ring was a force that kept your eyes glued to the television screen.
"Windham Rotunda’s fun-loving, free spirit paired with his infectious laugh is what I will truly miss the most.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the Rotunda family. Rest well my friend."
Jess Hardiman