The WWE Hall of Fame may celebrate the legends of the ring, but over the years, several wrestlers have passed away or faded from the spotlight with little to no acknowledgment from the company they once helped build. Whether due to backstage politics, controversial histories, or being overshadowed by bigger names, these wrestlers’ deaths—or careers—were largely ignored by WWE.

Let’s take a look at five professional wrestlers whose deaths (or ongoing legacies) have been quietly sidelined by WWE.

1. Dino Bravo (1948–1993)

Canadian Powerhouse Silenced by Controversy

Dino Bravo was a mainstay in WWE (then WWF) during the late ‘80s, known for his incredible strength, loud presence, and patriotic heel persona as “Canada’s Strongest Man.” But after leaving WWE in the early ’90s, Bravo got involved in organized crime—a move that ultimately led to his execution-style murder in 1993. He was shot 17 times in his own home in Laval, Quebec, in what is believed to be a mafia hit.

Despite being one of the most physically dominant wrestlers of his era, WWE has rarely—if ever—acknowledged his death. It wasn’t until the Dark Side of the Ring episode aired in 2020 that newer fans even heard Bravo’s tragic story.

2. Crash Holly (1971–2003)

The Man Who Made the Hardcore Title Fun

Crash Holly was a fan-favorite during the Attitude Era, especially known for carrying a scale to the ring and declaring himself a “super heavyweight.” He became legendary for his involvement in the 24/7 Hardcore Championship rule, delivering comedy, chaos, and creativity in equal parts.

Sadly, Crash (real name Michael Lockwood) died in 2003 from an overdose at just 32 years old. His death was barely acknowledged by WWE at the time, despite his popularity and contributions to one of their most chaotic, entertaining title divisions.

Crash Holly’s legacy continues to influence the modern 24/7 Championship concept, but his name is rarely mentioned in WWE broadcasts or retrospectives.

3. Stevie Richards (Born 1971)

Still Alive, Still Ignored

Stevie Richards hasn’t died—but his legacy in WWE has seemingly been erased, despite being a key player in multiple roles across the company’s history.

From his work in ECW, to being the leader of Right to Censor, and even playing a comedic foil during the Ruthless Aggression era, Richards was a dependable mid-card presence for years. He was involved in high-profile feuds and helped elevate others—but WWE rarely acknowledges his contributions or career highlights.

In recent years, Richards has become a respected podcaster and fitness advocate, but remains absent from WWE documentaries, tributes, or legacy pieces.

4. Shane Douglas (Born 1964)

The Franchise WWE Wants You to Forget

Shane Douglas is best known as “The Franchise” of ECW, and arguably the man who helped define the hardcore, rebellious spirit of that promotion. He briefly worked in WWF as Dean Douglas, a gimmick that flopped—mostly due to backstage politics and poor creative direction.

Douglas has never held back his criticism of WWE, especially regarding Vince McMahon and Shawn Michaels, which likely explains why WWE never acknowledges his legacy, even in ECW retrospectives.

Despite being a world champion, locker room leader, and one of the most influential wrestlers in ECW history, Douglas’ name is rarely—if ever—mentioned by WWE, even when discussing ECW’s rise.

5. Test (1975–2009)

A Tragic End, Met With Silence

Andrew “Test” Martin had all the tools to be a main event star—size, athleticism, and a look tailor-made for WWE’s late ‘90s boom. He was involved in key storylines, including a high-profile angle with Stephanie McMahon, and held multiple titles.

But Test’s career faltered due to injuries, backstage issues, and substance abuse problems. He passed away in 2009 at the age of 33, from an accidental overdose. His death received minimal acknowledgment from WWE, and he has never been featured in any tribute videos or special segments.

His ex-girlfriend, former WWE star Kelly Kelly, and others in the wrestling world have shared memories of him—but WWE has largely erased his contributions, even though he was once considered a future star.

While WWE has honored countless wrestlers over the years, there remains a pattern of selective memory. Whether due to PR concerns, past controversies, or personal grudges, certain stars have been ignored, erased, or unacknowledged—even in death.

Their stories deserve to be told, their legacies remembered, and their contributions respected. Because behind every gimmick was a real person who gave their body—and sometimes their life—to the business.