Long-time Memphis wrestler Jerry "The King" Lawler is speaking out about the Benoit tragedy and the brewing controversy over whether steroids played a role.
Lawler had known Chris Benoit for more than 15 years, his wife, Nancy, even longer.
Lawler said the wrestling world is in a tailspin, not only mourning, but dealing with the fallout. Lawler also said people in the wrestling community are puzzled after learning fellow wrestler Chris Benoit murdered his wife and seven-year-old son, then hung himself from a weight machine.
"You try to figure out why something like this would occur and sadly, it's hard to come up with a reason," said Lawler.
He says Benoit brought his family on the road during wrestling matches and they always seemed so close, "and I think that's what's so shocking to the wrestling community. Everyone that knew Chris, to everyone that knew Nancy and especially to everyone who knew his son Daniel," he added.
Lawler thinks some people are looking to give pro-wrestling a black eye after investigators found steroids in Benoit's home.
He points out Benoit's steroids were prescription and said he never saw signs of what people call "roid rage."
"I've seen certain wrestlers that have taken steroids their entire life and have suffered no ill effects," said Lawler.
Lawler says he's never done steroids, but he doesn't judge others who have. He calls this a time of reflection.
Lawler added, "it reminds us of how precious life is and how fleeting life is."
Lawler believes Benoit's actions were a tragic snapshot of what's happening in society as a whole and that wrestling is not the enemy.
He said people may never know exactly what was going through his friend's mind, but he said Benoit loved his family.
Kurt Angle:
Quote:
"Kurt hopes that you will join him in extending condolences and prayers for the survivors of the Chris Benoit Family. This news is very sad for all of us that knew and loved Chris. It is a sad tragedy and we wish the best for the family members that have to deal with this situation and go forward from this."
JBL
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I want to say my thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the horrific events that happened this past weekend with the Benoit family. I have never been this close to a tragedy of this scale, and still have no understanding how this incomprehensible thing could have happened.
I knew the family well, and I don’t want to add my speculation to what happened. I just want to say, I wish it never had, I think it is deplorable and my heart is broken that it did.
