Former Maryland football player and WWE Superstar dies at the age of 54

University of Maryland star football player Darren Drozdov is dead at the age of 54 years old, according to a statement released by his family.

“We are sad to share our beloved Darren passed away this morning of natural causes,” the Drozdov family said in the statement. “There are no words to convey the deep sense of loss and sadness we are feeling right now.

“Darren, affectionately known as “Droz,” was involved in a tragic ring accident while wrestling for the WWE in 1999 that rendered him a quadriplegic. Nevertheless, Droz maintained a championship mindset and lived every day to the fullest even though he was unable to move from the neck down for the past 24 years.”

Drozdov was very well known because of his stint in the late 90’s on WWE. Drozdov is from New Jersey where he played quarterback, and transitioned to defensive line.

Drozdov would go undrafted after college but play for the Eagles, Jets and Broncos back in 1996. He also had a stint in the CFL with Montreal.

Drozdov suffered a career ending injury when D-Lo Brown executed a Power Bomb incorrectly. Droz broke two vertebrae in his neck due to landing on his head.

Please keep the family of Drozdov in your prayers during this tough time.