On May 11, 2025, the wrestling community was rocked by the news of the passing of Terrance Michael Brunk, famously known as Sabu, who departed this world at the age of 60. This announcement comes just weeks after his last professional bout, where he faced Joey Janela in a No Rope Barbed Wire Match at GCW’s Joey Janela’s Spring Break 9.
While some may argue that a 60-year-old veteran belongs far from a high-risk match, those who followed Sabu’s illustrious career understand that his legacy was built on the thrill of violence and the unexpected. Regardless of the platform—be it the Indies, ECW, WWE, or his brief appearances in AEW—Sabu captivated audiences with a unique style. The matches that follow are a selection of the highlights from his remarkable career.
6 Sabu vs. John Cena – Extreme Rules Lumberjack Match
WWE Vengeance 2006
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While many might not rank Sabu’s matches in WWE among his best, his ability to rise to the occasion was evident in every performance. During the Extreme Rules Lumberjack Match, despite WWE and its reimagined ECW not adhering to the original extreme style, Sabu’s unpredictable and electrifying mannerisms showcased a different dimension to wrestling for WWE audiences. This pivotal match highlighted his talent, setting him up for a significant opportunity at SummerSlam later that summer.
John Cena, known for his status as a top WWE performer, notably adapted his style to match Sabu’s high-octane approach, providing a unique spectacle that introduced many in the WWE Universe to Sabu’s unparalleled energy.
5 Sabu vs. Terry Funk – Barbed Wire Match
ECW Born to Be Wired 1997
At the SCW event “Born to Be Wired,”Terry Funk defended the ECW World Championship against Sabu. This encounter marked an era where matches with barbed wire became an attraction, largely thanks to the influence of Japanese wrestling promotions. For many in attendance at the ECW Arena, this was a groundbreaking experience as they witnessed the brutal yet exhilarating spectacle of barbed wire wrestling, with Sabu proving his versatility and tenacity, even in a setting that stripped away traditional ropes.
4 Sabu and Rob Van Dam vs. Jinsei Shinzaki and Hayabusa – ECW World Tag Team Championship
ECW Heat Wave 1998
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Fans of Sabu and Rob Van Dam know the magic they created together, setting the stage for thrilling matches. Their encounter against Hayabusa and Jinsei Shinzaki, known for his WWE persona Hakushi, was a testament to their chemistry as a tag team—a dynamic amplified by their relationship with FMW. Though there may not have been an overarching storyline, the sheer excitement and action made this match an instant classic.
3 Sabu vs Taz – Falls Count Anywhere Match for the FTW and ECW World Heavyweight Championship
ECW Living Dangerously 1999
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The intense rivalry between Sabu and Taz, which began during the Eastern Championship Wrestling days, culminated in a highly anticipated showdown for the FTW and ECW Championships. The bout demonstrated the contrast between Sabu’s high-flying style and Taz’s brute strength, whose historic clashes left an indelible mark on ECW. This match is revered by fans for its high stakes and the incredible performances delivered by both athletes, showcasing Sabu at his best.
2 Sabu vs. Abyss – Barbed Wire Massacre
TNA Turning Point 2005
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Sabu’s time in TNA showcased some of his most remarkable matches, notably the Barbed Wire Massacre against Abyss. This encounter was a brutal affair, steeped in history and reminiscent of Sabu’s earlier days in ECW. The match pushed physical limits, witnessing Sabu’s ability to still thrill and entertain audiences despite the years gone by. His dedication to providing a memorable experience for fans remained, proving his resilience and showmanship.
1 The ECW Originals vs. New Breed – Extreme Rules Match
WWE ECW, April 3, 2007
In April 2007, the ECW brand made its WrestleMania debut, but it wasn’t until the following week that the original ECW Legends got their chance to show what hardcore wrestling really meant. The Extreme Rules match on WWE ECW delivered the carnage fans had hoped to see, with Sabu’s outrageous performances stealing the spotlight. Even within the sanitized bounds of WWE’s environment, Sabu managed to deliver an unforgettable spectacle, proving once again that he could adapt to any setting while elevating the match’s excitement.
Throughout his remarkable 40-year wrestling career, Terrance Brunk exemplified adaptability and skill, performing excellently across diverse styles and promotions. This ability sets the greats apart and solidifies their legendary status. The matches highlighted here contribute to the argument for Sabu’s rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame.