Scott Steiner’s Health Concerns: A Cautionary Tale for Professional Wrestlers

Professional wrestler Scott Steiner collapsed backstage at the Impact wrestling event last Friday, raising serious concerns about his health and the long-term effects of years of grueling competition. While the specific cause of his collapse isn’t officially disclosed, his medical history suggests a combination of factors, including the potential for underlying heart conditions and years of physical and chemical abuse on his body.

Background

Steiner, at the age of 57, has been wrestling for nearly 35 years. This extensive career has undoubtedly contributed to his strength and tactical prowess in the ring. However, it has also been a cornerstone in his eventual need to consider retirement. The toll of his career, both physically and chemically, is likely a significant factor in his current condition.

Medical History and Possible Causes

According to reports from The Sun, Steiner was hospitalized and required emergency medical intervention to restart his heart. While the exact cause isn’t officially disclosed, his history of health issues further supports the possibility of a heart-related incident. In March, Steiner almost died during an incident in Mexico when he was with Rick Steiner, highlighting the potential dangers of prolonged physical strain and previously unhealthy practices.

Given his career span and the physical demands of professional wrestling, it’s possible that Steiner has experienced a blockage in one or more of his coronary arteries. The lack of blood flow could have caused him to faint, leading to his hospitalization and subsequent heart catheterization procedure, which successfully opened his arteries. While the prognosis is positive, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the long-term health risks associated with the sport.

Impact on the Sport

The incident with Steiner is a wake-up call for the entire wrestling community. Pro wrestling, while heavily scripted, is an intensely physical activity that demands peak fitness and continuous training. As Steiner’s career progressed, the physical toll undoubtedly mounted, and he may have pushed his body beyond its limits. This raises questions about the role of steroid use and the overall health of retired wrestlers.

Despite the sport being technically scripted, the physical demands of running, jumping, lifting, and being slammed repeatedly are formidable. These demands are much more taxing on the bodies of middle-aged individuals like Steiner, who may have been in their prime during the early 1990s. Today, in 2020, the frailty of the human body under such stress is evident, underscoring the need for greater attention to the health and welfare of professional wrestlers.

Conclusion

Scott Steiner’s recent health challenges highlight the serious and often unacknowledged risks associated with a long career in professional wrestling. While his latest incident is not an isolated case, it serves as a poignant reminder that the sport, while thrilling and entertaining, can take a heavy toll on both the body and the health of its participants. It’s imperative that the wrestling community, both current and former wrestlers, take proactive steps to address and mitigate these risks.

As with many forms of competitive sports, the human body has its limits, and the long-term impact of repeated physical stress cannot be ignored. The incident with Scott Steiner is a sobering reminder of this reality and a call to action for the entire wrestling industry to prioritize the health and well-being of its athletes.