Further to our earlier story, we regret to report that Edward Fatu, formerly known as Umaga in WWE, has passed away after suffering a second heart attack in a Houston, TX, hospital. He was 36 years of age. We would like to send our condolences to Fatu’s loved ones on their loss.
WWE has issued a statement: “WWE would like to express its deepest condolences to Mr Fatu’s family, friends and fans on his tragic passing. Mr Fatu was under contract with WWE at various time periods and most recently performed under the name Umaga. Mr Fatu’s contract was terminated on June 11, 2009.”
Bobby Lashley, who faced Umaga in the WrestleMania 23 main event during the Vince McMahon vs Donald Trump feud, made the following comment on his Facebook page: “Very sad day today. A good friend is gone.”
Ken Anderson, formerly known as Mr Kennedy in WWE, who worked with Fatu on the recent Hulkamania tour in Australia, spoke about him on Twitter: “I’m very thankful to have had a private closed-door conversation with Ecki prior to our match a few days ago in Sydney. He insisted that we go out and tear the house down. We both had something to prove that night and in my opinion: Mission Accomplished! Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Fatu family. Ecki absolutely adored his wife and was extremely proud of his children. I have so many amazing, funny, and heartwarming (sometimes gut wrenching belly-laughing) memories.”
