WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda recovering from heart attack, not in hospice
WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda is battling a serious health situation, but he is not in hospice care.
The Rotunda family issued a statement today clarifying that Rotunda is not in hospice, as had been stated by his brother-in-law Barry Windham in an interview with Bill Apter. Rotunda suffered a massive heart attack in September, was in a coma for a week, and was hospitalized for more than a month. He’s since been moved to a rehab center — and his family is hopeful about his recovery.
Rotunda’s daughter Mika, who issued the statement on behalf of her family, asked fans to respect their privacy while continuing to provide prayers and good energy. Mika said her family is “deeply grateful” for the support they’ve received.
Mika noted that Windham misspoke during the interview with Apter but did not do so intentionally.
The full statement can be read below:
- Our family would like to take a moment to clarify some information currently circulating online regarding my father, Mike Rotunda.
- Yes, my uncle Barry did make a comment mentioning that my father is in hospice care while answering a question about our late family member, whom we lost two years ago. We want to make it clear that he misspoke—not intentionally.
- My father is not in hospice, but rather in a rehabilitation center. He suffered a massive heart attack on September 20th, was in a coma for a week, and spent over a month hospitalized. By the grace of God, he has now transitioned to a rehabilitation center, where our family remains present, hopeful, and focused on his recovery.
- It has already been a long road, and we know there is still a long road ahead—but our faith in God remains strong. Anyone who knows my dad knows that it’s his strength, work ethic, and athleticism that have carried him through not just this, but every challenge life has thrown his way. If there’s one person I have faith in, it’s Captain Mike.
- We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from the wrestling world and our local communities. At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we continue walking this journey together—but we warmly welcome continued prayers, good energy, and healing thoughts for his recovery.
- With love and gratitude,
- The Rotunda Family
Rotunda and Windham were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame together as the US Express in 2024. Perhaps best remembered for his WWF run playing IRS, Rotunda starred for WCW/Jim Crockett Promotions and competed in Japan during his career. He is also the father of WWE wrestler Bo Dallas/Uncle Howdy (Taylor Rotunda) and the late Bray Wyatt (Windham Rotunda).
Joseph Currier is the lead editor of F4WOnline.com, directing daily news coverage and writing articles on professional wrestling. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, obtaining a journalism degree in 2016. Joseph joined F4W during his time at UMass and has now been writing about the industry for nearly a decade.
In addition to his work with F4W, Joseph has previously contributed to Sports Illustrated's wrestling coverage. He lives in Massachusetts and is a diehard fan of the Boston sports teams and Liverpool Football Club.