What Happened to Darren Drozdov? How Did Former WWE Wrestler and NFL Player Darren Drozdov Die?
by Rubaditsha
Updated Jul 01, 2023
What Happened to Darren Drozdov?
Darren Drozdov, a former WWE wrestler and NFL player, experienced a life-altering incident during a wrestling match in 1999 that left him paralyzed. On October 5, 1999, during a SmackDown taping at the Nassau Coliseum, Drozdov was in a match against D'Lo Brown. Tragically, he landed on his head and suffered fractures in two of his neck vertebrae. This devastating injury resulted in Drozdov becoming quadriplegic, with limited movement in his arms and upper body. The match was not aired on television.
Despite the challenges he faced, Drozdov maintained a positive outlook on life. He embraced his circumstances, stating that being paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair did not mean his life was over. He lived each day to the fullest, demonstrating a championship mindset.
Following his wrestling career, Drozdov passed away at the age of 54 from natural causes. The WWE announced his death, expressing their deep sense of loss and remembering him as an imposing force in the wrestling ring. Drozdov's family released a statement conveying their appreciation for the love and support he received from fans, teammates, colleagues, and friends throughout his life.
They emphasized the impact that these relationships had on his sense of purpose and expressed their gratitude for the conversations, notes, and letters he cherished. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, a fellow wrestler and actor, paid tribute to Drozdov, recalling their time together and highlighting his positive qualities.
Prior to his wrestling career, Drozdov played football as an NFL nose guard for the New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, and Denver Broncos. He was known as "Puke" due to his tendency to vomit on the field, but he later adopted the ring name "Droz" for his wrestling persona. Despite his career being cut short by the tragic accident, Drozdov's contributions to the wrestling world and his resilience in the face of adversity are remembered and honored.
How Did Former Wwe Wrestler and Nfl Player Darren Drozdov Die?
Former WWE wrestler and NFL player Darren Drozdov passed away at the age of 54 from natural causes. The WWE announced his death, expressing their sadness and acknowledging Drozdov as a rising star in the wrestling world who had been left paralyzed due to injuries sustained in a 1999 match.
Despite his paralysis, Drozdov maintained a positive outlook on life and lived every day to the fullest. His family released a statement expressing their deep sense of loss and thanking everyone who supported him throughout the years. They emphasized that Drozdov's faith in humanity never wavered and expressed his love and appreciation for his fans, teammates, colleagues, and friends.
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, a fellow wrestler and actor, paid tribute to Drozdov on social media, remembering their time together and acknowledging his wrestling talent and personality. The Denver Broncos, for whom Drozdov played football prior to his wrestling career, also expressed their sadness over his passing and recognized him as someone who embodied perseverance and determination through adversity.
Who was Darren Drozdov?
Darren Adrian Drozdov, professionally known as Droz, was an accomplished American essayist, football player, and professional wrestler. Born on April 7, 1969, in the Mays Landing section of Hamilton Township, Atlantic County, New Jersey, Drozdov had a notable athletic career spanning football and wrestling.
Initially, Drozdov pursued football, playing as a quarterback and gaining recognition for his skills. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 245 pounds, he made a significant impact on the field during his high school years at Oakcrest High School in South Jersey. Notably, he threw a remarkable 72-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Lou Rothman, leading his team to a perfect 10-0 record in the 1985 regular season.
Drozdov also left his mark in track and field, setting a record in the shot put event in Atlantic County, New Jersey. His football accomplishments earned him the distinction of being named All-State. Following his football career, Drozdov transitioned to professional wrestling.
He had a brief stint in the NFL and CFL before making his mark in the wrestling world. Drozdov joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and became widely recognized for his time in the organization. Initially using the ring name Puke, a nickname carried over from his football career, he later adopted the shortened version of his surname, Droz.
Unfortunately, Drozdov's wrestling career was cut short due to a devastating neck injury. During a match, a botched wrestling maneuver resulted in him becoming quadriplegic. Despite this life-altering injury, Drozdov showed tremendous resilience and determination.
Over time, he regained a significant amount of upper body and arm functionality, defying the odds and adapting to his new circumstances. Throughout his life, Drozdov showcased his versatility and talent in multiple domains. In addition to his athletic pursuits, he was also recognized as an essayist, contributing his thoughts and insights to various topics.
Darren Drozdov, also known as Droz, leaves behind a legacy of strength, perseverance, and a commitment to embracing life's challenges. His journey from football to professional wrestling and his ability to overcome adversity inspire others to face their own obstacles with resilience and a champion's mindset.
What Happened to Darren Drozdov:FAQs
Darren Drozdov, a former WWE wrestler and NFL player, experienced a life-altering incident during a wrestling match in 1999 that left him paralyzed.
Darren Drozdov was known as "Puke" during his early wrestling career before adopting the ring name "Droz."
Drozdov sustained a neck injury during a wrestling match due to a botched maneuver, which left him quadriplegic.
Yes, despite being quadriplegic, Drozdov regained some use of his upper body and arms over time.
Drozdov played as a quarterback in high school and achieved notable success. He set a record in shot put in Atlantic County, New Jersey and was named All-State in football during his time at Oakcrest High School.