Chris Benoit is a professional wrestler who won 22 titles during his performances in the ring. Athleticism and martial prowess have made him one of the most beloved professional fighters with a large army of fans. But as remarkable as Benoit's career was, so tragic was his death. In May 2007, he first killed his family, and two days later he committed suicide.
Biography
Chris Benoit, whose full name is Christopher Michael Benoit, was born on May 21, 1967 in Montreal, Canada and spent most of his childhood in Alberta.
Montreal, Canada Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons
From an early age, he dreamed of becoming a world-class athlete and won numerous bodybuilding and wrestling awards in high school. He was especially inspired by Tom Billington and Bret Hart, whose shows he attended several times. During training, Benoit tried to imitate his idols and later in his professional performances often used Hart's "sharpshooter" technique.
Career
Chris Benoit began his professional wrestling career in 1985. Due to his breakneck speed and physical strength, he received the nickname "Dynamite".
Over 22 years in the ring, Benoit has won numerous titles, including the WWE and WCW World Heavyweight Champion, and became part of the World Wrestling Entertainment, World Championship Wrestling, New Japan Pro wrestling and Extreme Championship Wrestling teams.
Chris Benoit Photo: TheHellraiser / Wikimedia Commons
He is also known as one of only five fighters in the world to hold both WWE Triple Crown and WCW Triple Crown titles.
Personal life
Chris Benoit has been married twice. The first wife of the athlete was Martina Benoit, who bore him two children - a son, David and a daughter, Megan. He later began an affair with Nancy Sullivan, who was the wife of his rival in the ring, Kevin Sullivan.
In 2000, Chris and Nancy got married. The couple had a son, Daniel Christopher. In 2003, Nancy filed for divorce, accusing Benoit of abuse, but some time later withdrew her application and returned to her husband. However, their family relationship remained tense.
Eddie Guerrero Photo: Oakster / Wikimedia Commons
In November 2005, Benoit's close friend Eddie Guerrero died. The wrestler was grieving at the loss and became depressed. Later, his colleagues said that the death of a friend had a serious impact on the emotional state of Benoit.
Family tragedy
On June 25, 2007, police found the bodies of Chris Benoit, his wife and 7-year-old son. According to the investigation, the athlete first killed his family members, and two days later committed suicide. In all three bodies of the victims, harmful toxins were found.
Chris Benoit Photo: Bbsrock / Wikimedia Commons
Later, the investigation showed that numerous head injuries received by Benoit during his professional activity caused irreversible brain damage, which was the cause of sudden mood swings, uncontrolled aggression and psychotic behavior.
