You've likely seen reports on social media today about WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda (a.k.a. Irwin R. Shyster), father of the late Bray Wyatt, having been placed in hospice care.
The news stemmed from a recent interview with Rotunda's brother-in-law and former tag team partner, Barry Windham, who seemed to imply that the iconic pro wrestler might be close to passing away. Now, Rotunda's family has shared a statement which sets the record straight.
"Yes, my uncle Barry did make a comment mentioning that my father is in hospice care while answering a question about our late family member, whom we lost two years ago," his daughter, Mika Rotunda, wrote. "We want to make it clear that he misspoke—not intentionally."
"My father is not in hospice, but rather in a rehabilitation center," she continued. "He suffered a massive heart attack on September 20th, was in a coma for a week, and spent over a month hospitalized. By the grace of God, he has now transitioned to a rehabilitation center, where our family remains present, hopeful, and focused on his recovery."
"It has already been a long road, and we know there is still a long road ahead—but our faith in God remains strong," the statement added. "Anyone who knows my dad knows that it’s his strength, work ethic, and athleticism that have carried him through not just this, but every challenge life has thrown his way. If there’s one person I have faith in, it’s Captain Mike."
Mika concluded by expressing her thanks for the outpouring of positivity she's seen from fans since news of her father's ill health broke.
"We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from the wrestling world and our local communities. At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we continue walking this journey together—but we warmly welcome continued prayers, good energy, and healing thoughts for his recovery."
Born in 1958, Rotunda became an accomplished amateur wrestler at Northeast High School and Syracuse University. He later trained under The Destroyer in Germany and debuted professionally in 1981 for promotions like Championship Wrestling from Florida and Jim Crockett Promotions.
In 1984, he joined the World Wrestling Federation as Mike Rotundo, forming the U.S. Express tag team with Barry Windham, winning two WWF Tag Team Championships. He later portrayed Irwin R. Schyster (IRS), a tax-themed heel aligned with Ted DiBiase. Rotunda wrestled in WCW as Michael Wallstreet and retired in 2004 after All Japan Pro Wrestling stints.
Married to Stephanie Windham since 1983, he has three children: sons Windham (Bray Wyatt, died 2023) and Taylor (Bo Dallas), and daughter Mika. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2024 as part of the U.S. Express and served as a WWE road agent until 2020.