Former WWE star Darren Drozdov passed away Friday at the age of 54.

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

Drozdov became a notable figure in WWE, known to fans as both Puke and Droz during his time in the ring.

Before entering the ring, Drozdov, who played football at Maryland, played defensive lineman in the NFL with the New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, and Denver Broncos.

Drozdov came to fame in the ring in the late 1990s with his time spent in the Legion of Doom teaming with Animal and his Droz’s World vignettes.

In 1999, while wrestling for the WWE, Drozdov was involved in a tragic ring accident that rendered him a quadriplegic. According to the family statement, Droz maintained a “championship mindset.”

“His own words sum up his relentless positivity in the midst of adversity: ‘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.’”

The family thanked all well-wishers for their support.

“We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to everyone. All of his fans, teammates, colleagues, and friends for all the love and support he received over the years. You all gave him meaning, purpose and something to live for. He loved each and every one of you and cherished the conversations, notes and letters he received. His faith in humanity never faltered, so know that for all the love you’ve shown him, he loved you back.

We also would also like to thank WWE for treating him like family, and for all of their love, support and stepping up to make sure that Darren always had the proper care and treatment needed to live in his condition over the past 24 years.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.