Remembering Darren Drozdov: From N.F.L. Player to Pro Wrestler to Paralysis

Former N.F.L. football player and professional wrestler Darren Drozdov, known as Droz and Puke, passed away on Friday at the age of 54. Drozdov’s wrestling career was tragically cut short in 1999 when he suffered a severe injury in the ring that left him quadriplegic.

Drozdov’s death was confirmed by his sister, Rommi Drozdov, and his agent and longtime friend, Cliff Stein. The cause of death has not been disclosed at this time.

Before his wrestling career, Drozdov gained attention as an N.F.L. player when he famously vomited on a football during a Monday night game. He grew up in Mays Landing, New Jersey, and attended the University of Maryland, where he played football and earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1992.

After college, Drozdov signed as an undrafted rookie for the Denver Broncos and also had stints with the New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles. While playing for the Montreal Alouettes, a Canadian football team, he began considering a career in pro wrestling. His colorful personality, tattoos, and unique style made him a natural fit for the sport.

Drozdov eventually joined a WWE training program and became a member of the popular tag team, the Road Warriors. He was known for his “Droz’s World” vignettes and wrestled alongside notable wrestlers like Matt Bloom (Prince Albert) and Dwayne Johnson (the Rock).

Tragically, during a wrestling match at the Nassau Coliseum in 1999, Drozdov suffered a career-ending injury. He fractured two discs in his neck when a stunt went wrong, causing him to land on his head instead of his back. The injury left him quadriplegic.

Despite his devastating injury, Drozdov remained positive and continued to live life to the fullest. He enjoyed hunting and outdoor sports and even had a specially designed wheelchair that allowed him to navigate through the woods.

Drozdov’s family described him as relentlessly positive and cited his own words as inspiration: “There is always another day. Just because I’m paralyzed and stuck in a wheelchair doesn’t mean my life is over. I’ve learned to live again, and my life is far from over.”

Drozdov is survived by his parents and his sister. His impact on both the football and wrestling worlds will not be forgotten, and he will be remembered for his vibrant personality and resilience in the face of adversity.

How did Darren Drozdov’s career in the NFL prepare him for his wrestling career?

Droz and Puke, former N.F.L. football player and professional wrestler Darren Drozdov, sadly passed away on Friday at 54 years old. In 1999, Drozdov was involved in a devastating accident in the ring that left him paralyzed, abruptly ending his wrestling career.

The news of Drozdov’s death was confirmed by his sister, Rommi Drozdov, as well as his agent and close friend, Cliff Stein. However, the exact cause of his passing has not been revealed.

Prior to joining the world of wrestling,