On April 5, The Ultimate Warrior made his return to World Wrestling Entertainment, taking his place among the immortals as the latest inductee into the Hall of Fame. One night later, he stepped foot inside the Superdome in New Orleans for his first WrestleMania appearance in 18 years. Just 24 hours later, he address the WWE Universe, giving a stirring and emotional statement on the honor of the Hall of Fame and the effect the fans have on a performer's legacy. A day later, he was dead. The passing of Warrior shocked the wrestling world. Days earlier, his career had been celebrated. Fans had watched him speak so elegantly about his daughters and his wife and how much they meant to him. Those same fans forged an emotional bond with the man and were crushed by the news of his premature demise. On the April 14 episode of Raw, tears flowed freely as fans, Superstars, Divas and even Vince McMahon himself celebrated the life and contributions of the former WWE champion. A touching video tribute and highlights of Warrior's greatest matches and moments provided fans some sort of closure. Easily the most heart-wrenching moment of the year.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
