Matt Cappotelli, the winner of WWE’s Tough Enough Season 3, lost his brave battle with cancer on Friday morning,
He was 38 years old.
This sad piece of news was confirmed a couple hours ago by Cappotelli’s wife, Lindsay, who wrote in a statement:
“Today my love-my strong, sweet, beautiful love-took his last breath at 3:30 a.m. and went Home to be with Jesus exactly one year after his brain surgery.
“You think you can be prepared for this when you know it’s coming, but you just can’t.
“The only person who’s comfort I want right now is the one who can’t give it to me. I miss him so much. I know where he is now is so much better, but it doesn’t change how much I miss him.”
Cappotelli underwent a second surgery to remove a brain tumor about a year ago, in June of 2017.
This procedure took place a decade after he had another one removed and, as a result, was forced to cut his professional wrestling career short.
Tragically, though, this surgery did not solve the health problem.
In December, Cappotelli was told he had a Grade 4 tumor that was too close to his brain to operate.
He knew his days were numbered after this diagnosis.
Tough Enough, meanwhile, was a reality-type show that the WWE owned and operated.
It pitted a number of aspiring grapplers against each other, with the winner each season earning a WWE contract and a shot at true stardom.
Think American Idol, but for the wrestling world.
After winning Season 3, Cappotelli made multiple appearances on Monday Night Raw and went on work with developing talent in Ohio Valley Wrestling.
However, the Louislve resident retired professionally as a wrestler in 2007 due to these health concerns.
In response to his passing, numerous WWE stars and others who knew Matt well paid him tribute on Twitter.
WWE star Kassius Ohno wrote:
“Crushed to hear about the passing of Matt Cappotelli. He was talented, passionate & possessed a heart of GOLD.
“Everyone should fight as hard as Matt fought. Condolences to his friends, family & the countless others he touched on his journey. Rest In Peace Capp.”
And then there was this from Bill DeMott:
“I’m heart broken with the news of the passing of Matt Cappotelli. He is an inspiring young man that touched so many with his smile, his heart, and his faith.
“My love and prayers go out to Matts wife Lindsay and the family. #TeamCapp #RIPMAtt.”
Cappotelli’s passing comes just about a week after WWE legend Vader also passed away.
May Matt Cappotelli rest in peace.
