The wrestling community was deeply concerned earlier this week following reports that WWE legend Mike Rotunda, known to fans as the IRS, had been placed in hospice care. The rumor spread widely after Barry Windham, Mike’s brother-in-law and longtime tag team partner, mentioned in a recent interview that Rotunda was in hospice. However, Mike’s daughter, Mika Rotunda, has now stepped forward to clarify her father’s health status, putting an end to the unsettling speculation.
The Origin of the Hospice Care Rumor
Barry Windham, a respected figure in wrestling and Rotunda’s close family member, shared a somber update in an interview on October 27, where he mentioned that Mike Rotunda was in hospice care. His words ignited a wave of concern among fans and fellow wrestlers alike, as Rotunda is a cherished member of the wrestling dynasty—father to wrestlers Taylor Rotunda (Bo Dallas) and the late Bray Wyatt (Windham Rotunda). Bray Wyatt’s tragic passing in 2023 had already placed immense emotional strain on the family, amplifying worries about Mike’s condition[1].
Soon after, fellow wrestling alum Leilani Kai publicly expressed support for Mike and his family, asking fans to keep them in their thoughts and prayers, which only heightened the impression that Rotunda was in critical condition[1].
Mika Rotunda’s Crucial Clarification
In response to the growing distress within the community, Mika Rotunda took to her Instagram Stories on October 29 to correct the misinformation. She affirmed that although her father is indeed battling serious health issues, he is not in hospice care—a distinction that significantly changes the perception of his current condition[2][3].
Mika’s statement emphasized the importance of distinguishing between a severe health challenge and the more definitive, often end-of-life implications of hospice care. This led to a more tempered understanding among fans, who expressed relief that Mike Rotunda’s situation might be less dire than initially feared.
Backstage Insights on Mike Rotunda’s Condition
According to a WWE insider familiar with the Rotunda family’s situation, the confusion originated from a simple miscommunication. “Barry Windham was emotional and perhaps misspoke when he mentioned hospice, leading to a misunderstanding,” the source revealed. “Mike is receiving extensive medical care and is stable for now, but the family is understandably cautious about the future.”
This insider also noted that the Rotunda family has been closely supported by the WWE community amidst the challenges following Bray Wyatt’s passing. “WWE has been a pillar of strength for them, both publicly and privately,” they added.
Wrestling Community Reacts with Support and Caution
Mike Rotunda, a respected veteran whose legacy spans decades in professional wrestling, has inspired multiple generations. As news of his health circulated, many wrestlers, old friends, and fans sent messages of encouragement. However, the hospice rumor had many bracing for the worst, underscoring the deep respect held for a man often regarded as wrestling royalty.
Bo Dallas, Mike’s son, has been especially vocal about his family’s resilience, recently continuing the Wyatt family legacy in WWE storylines while also honoring the memory of his late brother. The family’s wrestling dynasty now faces a new chapter filled with concern and hope.
Why the Distinction Between Hospice and Serious Illness Matters
Hospice care typically denotes a focus on comfort rather than curative treatment, often signaling that a patient has a limited life expectancy. Mika Rotunda’s clarification that Mike is not in hospice care reframes his situation—it means he is still undergoing treatments aimed at managing his condition but is not necessarily at the end stage of illness.
Such distinctions are vital, both for the family’s privacy and for fans’ expectations. Accurate information helps the community rally around without spreading unnecessary despair or false hope.
What’s Next for Mike Rotunda and the Rotunda Family?
While Mika’s update brings some relief, sources close to the family caution that Mike Rotunda’s health remains fragile, and the family is focused on his care and recovery. Routine updates are expected as the situation evolves but with an emphasis on maintaining dignity and privacy.
WWE has yet to release an official statement commenting directly on Mike Rotunda’s condition. However, it is evident that the promotion continues to stand behind one of its iconic figures. As one backstage source put it, “Mike’s impact on WWE and the wrestling world is undeniable, and the locker room is behind him 100 percent—emotionally and in any way they can help.”
Conclusion
The recent hospice rumors about Mike Rotunda have been dispelled by his daughter Mika, who clarified that her father is battling serious health issues but is not receiving hospice care at this time. The wrestling world can breathe a cautious sigh of relief while continuing to support this wrestling legend and his family during a difficult period.
Fans and supporters are encouraged to respect the family’s privacy as they navigate these health challenges and to keep the Rotundas in their thoughts during this time.
This article is based on statements from family members, interviews, and insider sources within the wrestling community as of October 29, 2025.