Wrestling fans were left mourning last week after it was announced that a former WWE television star passed away at the age of 30.
Sara Lee rose to prominence in 2015 while competing on the sixth season of Tough Enough, a reality television show which featured aspiring wrestlers.
Tributes pour in
WWE responded to news that Lee had died by putting out a statement on its official website which recalled her time with the company.
“WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of Sara Lee,” the statement read. “Born and raised in Hope Township, Michigan, Lee excelled in powerlifting before eventually joining the sixth season of WWE’s ‘Tough Enough.'”
“Lee went on to win the fan vote for Tough Enough and serve as an inspiration to many in the sports-entertainment world,” it continued, adding, “WWE offers its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and fans.”
WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of Sara Lee. As a former “Tough Enough” winner, Lee served as an inspiration to many in the sports-entertainment world. WWE offers its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and fans. pic.twitter.com/jtjjnG52n7
— WWE (@WWE) October 7, 2022
Tributes to Lee poured in on social media, including from WEE wrestler Sonya Deville, who remembered the fallen athlete as being “awesome.”
Absolutely heart breaking, life is too short. Sara was awesome 💔 sending love and prayers to her family and loved ones. https://t.co/h65703b2v8
— Sonya Deville (@SonyaDevilleWWE) October 6, 2022
Star left behind a husband and children
Fans of the young wrestling star made their feelings about Lee known as well, with some referencing the fact that she appeared to have been in good health and had been to the gym just one day before her death.
WWE ‘Tough Enough’ Winner Sara Lee, Dead at 30…
“We are all in shock”…
Posted a gym selfie on Instagram the day before her death…
Won ‘Tough Enough’ in 2015, fighting off competition from the likes of Chelsea Green, Mandy Rose, and Sonya Deville…
– TheSportster pic.twitter.com/VZ3035wKCy
— Dr. James E. Olsson (@DrJamesOlsson) October 6, 2022
Meanwhile, others took note of the fact that Lee was married to fellow wrestler Wesley Blake and left young children behind.
Sara Lee, who won the last season of WWE Tough Enough in 2015, has sadly passed away at just 30. She only said one day ago how she was feeling well enough after a sinus infection to go to the gym. She was married to Wesley Blake & the pair have young children together. So sad 💔 pic.twitter.com/YiopstHD2X
— Louis Dangoor (@TheLouisDangoor) October 6, 2022