I don't follow wrestling. My only exposure to the whole concept is from Grimm and Doc. And, I only know Benoit from playing him on a PS2 wrestling game. But, for some reason....and I'm not sure if I can put the reasoning into words...this bothers me. Beyond the idea of a family dead, which is horrible in and of itself. But, I think it's akin to what Nowhereman said about not ever seeing behind the facade of characters. If one of these guys died in the ring, it's just something you almost expect. If they die of old age, or medical issues brought on by physically abusing their bodies over the years, it's not all that surprising. But, when you hear about something as tragic as this...whether it be murder, murder/suicide, or whatever...it really, really gut-punches the realization that these superhuman guys aren't superhuman at all. They are, in fact, very human. And, the idea that something, or someone could kill one of them just as easily as any other person....well, that bothers me for some reason. Makes me feel we are all very...vulnerable. Very human.
So, I will not insult this tribute thread by eulogizing a performer I only vaguely even knew. This is much more personal for all the wrestling fans, and I would not insult his memory or your sentiments by joining in and pretending I know anything about him, or why he is so appreciated. But, seeing the banners startled me enough to make me actually come into this forum, and read this thread.
And, if nothing else, I know it sucks to lose a favorite "hero" or performer. I'm a nerd. I miss guys like Douglas Adams. You all will miss Chris Benoit. And, in the end, they were both taken from us unexpectedly, and tragically. So, we aren't that much different.
