Who Was Sid Vicious? Remembering the Legendary Wrestler Who Died at 63

Sidney Raymond Eudy, popularly known as Sid Vicious, Sycho Sid, or Sid Justice, has passed away at the age of 63 following a prolonged battle with cancer. His death was confirmed by his son, Gunnar Eudy, who shared the news on Facebook. Gunnar described his father as a man of strength, kindness, and love, and expressed that Sid’s presence would be deeply missed.

Who was Sid Eudy AKA Sid Vicious?

Sid Vicious, born John Simon Ritchie, gained fame as the bassist for the influential punk band the Sex Pistols before transitioning to professional wrestling. Despite his legendary status in punk rock, Sid Vicious is most renowned in the wrestling world for his impactful career in WWE and WCW.

His wrestling journey began in 1987, and he made a significant mark in WWE, then known as the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Sid first appeared in WWE in 1991 as Sid Justice and quickly made an impression. He was a notable contender at the Royal Rumble that year, finishing as the runner-up. His early WWE career was marked by a high-profile rivalry with Hulk Hogan, leading to a main-event match against Hogan at WrestleMania 8 in 1992. Despite losing this match, Sid’s career was on the rise. However, his first WWE tenure was marred by issues related to a failed drug test, leading to a suspension and eventual departure.

Sid returned to WCW in 1993, where he continued to build his reputation. In 1994, he joined the United States Wrestling Association (USWA) and held the USWA Unified World Heavyweight Championship twice. He re-entered WWE in February 1995 under the ring name Sycho Sid, initially as the bodyguard for Shawn Michaels. However, his stint was problematic, culminating in a notable incident at WrestleMania 11 where he inadvertently contributed to Shawn Michaels’ loss against Diesel. Following a confrontation with Michaels, Sid delivered three power bombs to his partner, which led to further tension.

Sid’s second WWE career was cut short by a serious neck injury in 1997. After leaving WWE, he wrestled on the independent circuit and had a final stint in WCW from 1999 to 2001. Due to a leg injury and medical advice, Sid retired from wrestling briefly after 2001.

Sid made a memorable return to WWE in 2012 for the 1000th episode of Monday Night RAW, where he defeated Heath Slater. His final match took place on August 5, 2017, for Great North Wrestling in Ottawa, where he defeated Paul Rosenberg.

Throughout his career, Sid Vicious won the WWF Championship twice, the WCW World Heavyweight Championship twice, and the USWA Unified World Heavyweight Championship twice. He also main-evented WrestleMania 8 and 13. Sid’s legacy in professional wrestling is marked by his charisma, championship victories, and impactful performances, securing his place as a significant figure in the sport’s history.