The wrestling community was shaken when WWE Diva Ashley Massaro passed away, leaving fans and fellow wrestlers in shock. In this article, we delve into the details surrounding her untimely demise, exploring the causes and the aftermath.
A Life Marked by Struggle and Triumph
Ashley Massaro, known for her stint in WWE and her vibrant presence in the wrestling community, faced numerous challenges both inside and outside the ring. Born on May 26, 1979, Massaro’s journey was fraught with personal tribulations, including the tragic loss of her younger brother, Ronnie Massaro, in a fatal stabbing incident in New York City in November 2020.
Despite her hardships, Massaro remained resilient, showcasing her strength not only as a wrestler but also as a devoted mother to her daughter. When her child fell ill in mid-2008, Massaro made the difficult decision to request an early release from WWE to prioritize her daughter’s care.
Legal Battles and Allegations Rocking the WWE
In November 2016, Massaro became embroiled in a class-action lawsuit against WWE, joining others in alleging that the company concealed the risks of injury that led to neurological damage among wrestlers. Massaro also made disturbing allegations of sexual assault during a WWE tour of Kuwait, further complicating her relationship with the organization.
WWE Ashley Massaro Death
Despite her efforts to seek justice, the lawsuit was dismissed in late 2018. However, the aftermath of these legal battles weighed heavily on Massaro, as evidenced by an email she sent to WWE expressing regret for her involvement in the lawsuit just months before her death.
How Did Ashley Massaro Die?
On May 15, 2019, Massaro finished responding to fan mail but failed to show up for work at WWSK-FM later that night. Paramedics discovered her unresponsive at her home in Smithtown, New York, the following morning. Despite their efforts, Massaro was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
In the wake of her passing, WWE paid tribute to Massaro at the Money in the Bank pay-per-view event, honoring her legacy as a beloved figure in the wrestling community. However, conflicting reports emerged regarding the cause of her death, with some outlets citing suicide while others refrained from making definitive statements.
Ashley Massaro Cause of Death
In the absence of an official cause of death released by the Suffolk County medical examiner’s office, speculation surrounding Massaro’s demise persisted. However, in September 2021, a USA Today article revealed that she had died by suicide, reigniting conversations about mental health within the professional wrestling industry.
Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding her death, Massaro’s legacy endures through the heartfelt efforts of her colleagues and loved ones. Former WWE female wrestlers, known as “The Squared Circle Sisters,” initiated a crowdfunding campaign to establish a college fund for Massaro’s daughter, exemplifying the bond shared among members of the wrestling community.
Remembering Ashley Massaro
Ashley Massaro’s story is one of triumph and tragedy, showcasing the complexities of life both inside and outside the wrestling ring. As fans and colleagues continue to grapple with the circumstances of her death, one thing remains clear: Massaro’s impact on the wrestling world transcends her untimely passing.
In honoring her memory, it’s imperative to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of Massaro’s legacy, from her contributions to the sport of wrestling to her advocacy for mental health awareness. As the wrestling community reflects on her life and career, may Ashley Massaro be remembered not only for her talent but also for the indelible mark she left on those who knew and admired her.