As the wrestling world prepares to mark the 20th anniversary of Eddie Guerrero’s passing, long-standing rumors about the circumstances surrounding his death have resurfaced online. But now, WWE legend John “Bradshaw” Layfield is stepping forward to put those conspiracy theories to rest once and for all.
Eddie Guerrero, affectionately known as “Latino Heat,” died on November 13, 2005, just hours before a scheduled WWE event. His final match—a victory over Mr. Kennedy at a SmackDown taping—has fueled speculation for years, with some fans suggesting that a chair shot in that match may have contributed to his sudden passing. But according to Layfield, that theory is not only false, it’s never been supported by anyone inside WWE.
The Final Match and Lingering Rumors
Eddie Guerrero’s last match took place on November 8, 2005, at a SmackDown taping in Minneapolis. He won a Survivor Series qualifying match against Mr. Kennedy, earning a spot on Team SmackDown for the upcoming pay-per-view. The match was physical, but not out of the ordinary for Guerrero’s style. However, the fact that he passed away just days later led to whispers online—some even suggesting that a chair shot during the match may have played a role in his death.
“Yeah, I’ve heard that over the years,” Layfield said on the Something to Wrestle podcast. “I think it kind of sounds familiar, but nobody thought that. You know, guys have gotten thousands of chair shots over the years, and guys don’t die from chair shots, you know?”
Layfield emphasized that while it’s easy to see why fans might connect the dots—especially given the timing—there was never any suspicion among wrestlers or WWE officials that the match had anything to do with Guerrero’s death.
“I get why the conspiracy gets put together,” Layfield continued. “Hard chair shot, you die however long later it was. And I get why people could put two and two together like that. But nobody at the time thought that, and I certainly don’t believe that.”
The Official Cause of Death
The official autopsy confirmed that Eddie Guerrero died of acute heart failure caused by arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease—a condition that had been exacerbated by years of substance abuse, including alcohol, steroids, and narcotics. According to sources close to Guerrero’s family, he had a history of health issues but was reluctant to seek medical attention.
“Eddie’s heart was that of a 90-year-old man,” said a WWE insider who worked closely with Guerrero during his final years. “He had been through a lot—years of wrestling, working out, and battling addiction. But he was always so full of life, so passionate about what he did. Nobody saw it coming.”
The insider added that Guerrero’s death was a shock to everyone in the locker room. “We were all devastated. Eddie was one of those guys who lit up the room. When we found out, it was just… surreal.”
The Impact on WWE and the Wrestling World
Eddie Guerrero’s passing sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. At the next WWE event, Vince McMahon addressed the crowd, and the bell was rung 10 times in Guerrero’s honor—a tribute that would become a tradition for fallen wrestlers.
According to a WWE executive who was present that night, the mood backstage was somber. “We were all given the option to wrestle or not wrestle that night,” the executive recalled. “Some guys took it harder than others. Eddie was on his way to being champion again. He was scheduled to face Shawn Michaels and win the title in the coming months. It was supposed to be another peak in his career.”
Guerrero’s legacy continues to inspire wrestlers and fans alike. His story of overcoming addiction and adversity resonates with many, and his in-ring performances are still celebrated as some of the best in WWE history.
Debunking the Conspiracy Theories
Despite the official cause of death, conspiracy theories have persisted over the years. Some fans have even suggested that Guerrero’s death was a storyline or that he is still alive. But those claims have been thoroughly debunked by WWE officials and those who knew Guerrero personally.
“Eddie’s death was real, and it was tragic,” said the WWE insider. “There’s no conspiracy, no cover-up. He was a fighter, both in and out of the ring. But his body just couldn’t take it anymore.”
Layfield echoed those sentiments, urging fans to remember Guerrero for his contributions to wrestling rather than focusing on unfounded rumors.
“Let’s honor Eddie by remembering what he did for this business,” Layfield said. “He was a trailblazer, a role model, and a friend to so many of us. That’s what matters.”
Remembering Eddie Guerrero
As the 20th anniversary of Eddie Guerrero’s passing approaches, WWE is expected to honor his legacy with a special tribute on SmackDown. Fans around the world will remember Guerrero not just for his in-ring accomplishments, but for his resilience, his charisma, and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
“Eddie was more than just a wrestler,” said the WWE insider. “He was a hero to so many. His story is a reminder that life is precious, and we should cherish every moment we have.”
Eddie Guerrero’s legacy lives on, not just in the memories of those who knew him, but in the hearts of fans who continue to celebrate his life and career.