Quote Originally Posted by TMZ.com
World Wrestling DEADeration
The shocking and gruesome double murder/suicide involving wrestling superstar Chris Benoit isn't the "sport's" first brush with mysterious and untimely deaths. From exploding hearts to drug use -- and even to some unsolved cases -- some of the musclebound who've entered the squared circle have checked out early. TMZ has assembled a gallery of the dudes and chicks -- knocked out too soon.

Chris Benoit - Once admired by fans and critics alike, the "Rabid Wolverine" died June 25, 2007, at age 40, when he hanged himself after killing his wife and son.

Eddie Guerrero - From the famous Guerrero wrestling family, Mr. "Lie, Cheat & Steal" died Nov. 13, 2005, at age 38, from an enlarged heart, due to years of drug abuse.

"Ravishing" Rick Rude - Popular with the ladies, Rude died of a heart attack March 20, 1999 at age 41 (with an open bottle of painkillers next at his bedside).

Miss Elizabeth - Elizabeth Hulette, former wife of Macho Man Randy Savage, died May 01, 2003 at age 42 from an overdose of alcohol and painkillers.

Dino Bravo - Died March 11, 1993, at age 44 from multiple gunshot wounds sustained amidst rumors of cigarette smuggling and a gangland-style hit.

Curt Hennig - As "Mr. Perfect," Hennig claimed perfection in the ring. But acute cocaine intoxication claimed his life on Feb. 10, 2003 at the age of 44.

Bam Bam Bigelow - After years of drug abuse and financial problems, Scott Bigelow succumbed to an overdose on January 19, 2007 at 45.

Road Warrior Hawk - Using his real-life drug and alcohol problems as a storyline, the WWE said goodbye to Michael Hegstrand on Oct. 19, 2003, when he died of a massive heart attack.