Why do so many professional wrestlers die young?

Understanding the sad trend

A wrestling ring
(Image credit: peshkov/Getty Images)

In early January the sports world was rocked by the news that professional wrestler Jay Briscoe had died at the age of 38. Briscoe was involved in a car accident, but his death was just the latest on a long list of wrestlers who have lost their lives prematurely. Here's everything you need to know about this sad trend:

How many wrestlers have died prematurely?

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Justin Klawans, The Week US

 Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other Hollywood news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.