On November 14, 2005, I found out that one of my absolute favorite WWE Superstars had passed away the day before. He was only 38 years old. Needless to say, I was shocked and very saddened. The following night on RAW, the WWE paid tribute to Eddie. The entire WWE roster gathered on the entrance stage, and stood in silence, along with the crowd, as the bell was tolled 10 times in Eddie's memory. Afterwards, there was a video tribute presentation accompanied by the Johnny Cash's rendition of the Nine Inch Nails song "Hurt". I couldn't help but cry. It was just so sad knowing that Eddie had conquered the demons in his life, and had since become a born-again Christian, getting his life back on track. Eddie had fought his way through the addictions and the marriage troubles. An autopsy later revealed that the cause of death was due to heart failure. Apparently Eddie's past had caught up with him, along with the WWE's intense schedule. I especially felt bad for those in the business that were closest to Eddie, such as Chris Benoit, Rey Mysterio, Dean Malenko, and of course his nephew Chavo Guerrero Jr. There were also some very emotional and moving comments on the special edition of RAW that night, from John Cena, Chavo, Stephanie McMahon, Batista, Rey Mysterio, Triple H and Chris Benoit. Benoit's words and reaction was the hardest to watch. The following Friday night on SmackDown!, there were also emotional words from Vince & Shane McMahon, Booker T and John Bradshaw Layfield. Both RAW and SmackDown!'s Superstars
were not required to work, but most chose to in honor of their friend Eddie Guerrero. Eddie had such a passion for the wrestling business, and such a love for performing for the fans. Now he's gone...and there will be no one that could ever replace him. Eddie, you will live on in our hearts and our minds forever. On behalf of every WWE fan and professional wrestling fan for that matter, we will miss you and we will never forget you. Rest in peace, Eddie. We love you.
VIVA LA RAZA!!!