Eddie Guerrero, whose full name was Eduardo Gory Guerrero Llanes, left an indelible mark on professional wrestling with his charisma, unmatched skill, and signature "Lie, Cheat, Steal" persona. Born on October 9, 1967, he would have turned 57 today. However, Eddie tragically passed away at the young age of 38 in 2005, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans and fellow wrestlers alike.
Known for his incredible in-ring talent, Eddie Guerrero became one of WWE’s most beloved champions, forever remembered for his vibrant personality and outstanding matches. In 2024, as we honor his memory on his birthday, WWE stars and fans continue to celebrate his legacy with tributes, remembering the joy he brought both inside and outside the ring.
Summary of Eddie Guerrero’s Life and Career
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eduardo Gory Guerrero Llanes |
| Birthdate | October 9, 1967 |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (173 cm) |
| Age at Death | 38 years old |
| Cause of Death | Acute heart failure due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease |
| WWE Championship Win | 2004 (Defeated Brock Lesnar) |
| Famous Rivalries | Rey Mysterio, Brock Lesnar |
| Catchphrase | "Viva La Raza" |
| Iconic Persona | "Lie, Cheat, Steal" |
Key Takeaways
- Eddie Guerrero, born October 9, 1967, was a beloved WWE Champion known for his "Lie, Cheat, Steal" persona.
- He passed away at age 38 on November 13, 2005, from acute heart failure due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
- WWE and its fans continue to honor his legacy, particularly on his birthday, with heartfelt tributes from stars and fans alike.
- Eddie Guerrero’s rivalry with Rey Mysterio and his friendship with Chris Benoit are legendary moments in wrestling history.
WWE Eddie Guerrero – A Champion’s Journey
Eddie Guerrero’s rise in WWE was not just about his wrestling ability; it was about his connection with fans. His "Latino Heat" persona was a mix of charm, humor, and skill, and he quickly became a fan favorite. Whether he was playing the hero or the villain, Eddie had a way of engaging the audience that few wrestlers could match.
He became WWE Champion in 2004, marking one of the most memorable moments in wrestling history. His battle against Brock Lesnar at "No Way Out" is still talked about as one of the greatest underdog victories ever. Eddie’s ability to connect with fans, both as a comic figure and a determined athlete, made him a true legend.
Eddie Guerrero’s Death – A Tragic Loss
On November 13, 2005, the world of wrestling was devastated by the news of Eddie Guerrero’s death. He was found unconscious in his hotel room by his nephew, Chavo Guerrero, and was later pronounced dead. Eddie’s cause of death was acute heart failure, a result of underlying atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. His passing shocked the wrestling community, and tributes poured in from fans and wrestlers all around the world.
His death also had a profound impact on his close friend Chris Benoit, who struggled deeply with the loss. The bond between Benoit and Eddie was well-known, and Eddie’s passing marked a turning point in Benoit’s life, leading to his own tragic story.
Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio – A Legendary Rivalry and Friendship
Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio shared one of the most famous rivalries in WWE history, but behind the scenes, they were close friends. Their rivalry peaked with an unforgettable storyline involving the custody of Rey’s son, Dominik, which led to a dramatic ladder match at SummerSlam 2005.
The matches between Eddie and Rey were fast-paced and showcased both of their extraordinary talents. Fans loved watching these two battle it out in the ring, knowing that their respect for each other ran deep. To this day, Rey Mysterio continues to honor Eddie’s memory in his own career.
Eddie Guerrero’s Legacy in WWE Merchandise and Collectibles
Even nearly two decades after his death, Eddie Guerrero’s legacy lives on through WWE merchandise, including action figures and shirts. Fans continue to wear his iconic "Viva La Raza" shirts and "I’m Your Papi" designs, paying homage to their beloved wrestler.
Collectibles, such as Eddie Guerrero Elite and Ultimate Edition action figures, remain highly sought after by collectors, reflecting his lasting impact on the wrestling world. These items celebrate Eddie’s legacy and allow new generations of fans to keep his memory alive.
FAQs
How did Eddie Guerrero die?
Eddie Guerrero passed away on November 13, 2005, due to acute heart failure caused by underlying atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. He was found in his hotel room by his nephew, Chavo Guerrero.
What was Eddie Guerrero’s relationship with Chris Benoit?
Eddie Guerrero and Chris Benoit were close friends, both in and out of the ring. Benoit was deeply affected by Eddie’s death, which contributed to his own personal struggles that tragically ended in 2007.
What was the rivalry between Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio about?
Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio had a legendary rivalry in WWE, with one of the most famous storylines involving the custody of Rey’s son, Dominik. This led to a dramatic ladder match at SummerSlam 2005.
How is Eddie Guerrero remembered in WWE today?
Eddie Guerrero is remembered as one of WWE’s greatest champions. His legacy lives on through tributes from fans and fellow wrestlers, as well as in WWE merchandise like action figures and T-shirts.
What was Eddie Guerrero’s catchphrase?
Eddie Guerrero’s iconic catchphrase was "Viva La Raza," which celebrated his Latino heritage and became synonymous with his wrestling persona.
Did Eddie Guerrero have a distinctive hairstyle?
Yes, Eddie Guerrero was known for his distinctive mullet hairstyle during the early stages of his wrestling career, which became part of his recognizable image in the ring.
Eddie Guerrero’s vibrant legacy continues to inspire fans and wrestlers alike, with his unique style and spirit still celebrated in 2024.