Eddie Guerrero was more than just a wrestler — he was a charismatic icon whose charm, skill, and resilience made him a beloved figure in the world of professional wrestling. Known for his catchphrase “Lie, cheat, and steal,” Eddie lived by the mantra both in and out of the ring, always finding a way to win. But behind the spotlight and fame, he struggled with personal demons and health issues that ultimately led to his shocking death at the age of 38. For fans who still ask, “How did Eddie Guerrero die?” the answer is both heartbreaking and sobering. His story serves as a reminder of the hidden toll that fame, pressure, and unhealthy lifestyle choices can take on even the strongest individuals.

Guerrero’s passing on November 13, 2005, stunned the wrestling world. Found unresponsive in a Minneapolis hotel room, his death was sudden and unexpected, sending waves of grief through the WWE community and beyond. While many speculated about the cause at the time, the official report pointed to heart disease — specifically, arteriosclerotic heart disease — which led to a fatal heart attack. Despite his vibrant presence in the ring, Eddie’s off-screen battles with substance abuse and steroid use played a role in the condition that ultimately took his life.

Even years after his death, Eddie’s legacy lives on, not only through his inductees in the WWE, AAA, and Wrestling Observer Halls of Fame but also through the countless fans who still remember his wit, charm, and unforgettable performances. Understanding how Eddie Guerrero died isn’t just about the medical facts — it’s about the life of a man who gave everything to his craft, often at the expense of his own well-being. Let’s take a closer look at his journey, his final days, and the events that led to his tragic passing.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Eddie Guerrero
• Eddie Guerrero’s Health Struggles
• The Last Days and Discovery
• What Was the Official Cause of Eddie Guerrero’s Death?
• The Impact of Eddie’s Passing on the Wrestling World
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Eddie Guerrero

Eddie Guerrero, born Eduardo Gory Guerrero on October 9, 1967, in El Paso, Texas, was part of one of the most iconic wrestling families in history. His father, Gory Guerrero, was a pioneer in Mexican wrestling, and his brothers and cousins — including Chavo, Mando, and Vickie — all followed in his footsteps. Eddie made his professional debut in 1987 and quickly rose through the ranks, known for his technical skill, clever mind games, and ability to connect with fans.

He gained international fame in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) before joining WWE in 2000, where he became a global superstar. Eddie was a former WWE Champion and United States Champion, and his ladder match with Kurt Angle at No Way Out 2005 is still regarded as one of the greatest in WWE history.

Eddie Guerrero’s Health Struggles

Throughout his wrestling career, Eddie Guerrero battled a number of personal and health issues. He openly discussed his struggles with substance abuse, including alcohol and painkillers, which he used to cope with the physical toll of performing night after night. Like many wrestlers, he also used anabolic steroids to maintain his physique and endure the grueling demands of the sport — a decision that would later come back to haunt him.

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By the early 2000s, Eddie was showing signs of declining health. He had undergone multiple surgeries, including a neck procedure in 2002 that sidelined him for months. He also suffered from high blood pressure and had a family history of heart disease — factors that combined with his lifestyle choices to create a dangerous mix.

Despite these issues, Eddie continued to perform at a high level. His match with Kurt Angle at No Way Out 2005, for example, is considered one of the best technical matches in WWE history. However, the physical and emotional toll was mounting, and those close to him began to worry about his health.

The Last Days and Discovery

On November 11, 2005, Eddie was in Minneapolis for a WWE house show. He checked into the Marriott City Center hotel and was seen around the venue, in good spirits and seemingly healthy. On the morning of November 13, his cousin and fellow wrestler, Chavo Guerrero, went to check on him after he failed to respond to calls.

When Chavo entered the room, he found Eddie unconscious on the bathroom floor. He tried to revive him, but Eddie was already gone. The scene was shocking — Eddie had a toothbrush in his hand, suggesting he had just started his morning routine before collapsing.

The medical examiner later confirmed that Eddie died from a heart attack caused by arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, a condition where the arteries harden and narrow, restricting blood flow to the heart. His body had been under immense strain for years, and the combination of steroid use, substance abuse, and poor lifestyle choices likely accelerated the progression of this disease.

What Was the Official Cause of Eddie Guerrero’s Death?

The official cause of death, according to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office, was a heart attack due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This condition, also known as atherosclerosis, involves the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which over time can restrict or block blood flow to the heart, leading to cardiac arrest.

In Eddie’s case, the autopsy revealed that his arteries were significantly clogged, and the damage was severe enough to cause a fatal heart attack. While steroids and substance abuse played a role in exacerbating the condition, the underlying issue was long-term heart disease.

What made this even more tragic was that Eddie was only 38 at the time of his death — far younger than the average age for someone to experience such severe heart problems. His passing served as a wake-up call to the wrestling community about the dangers of ignoring health issues and the toll that performance-enhancing drugs can take on the body.

The Impact of Eddie’s Passing on the Wrestling World

When news of Eddie’s death broke, the wrestling world was in mourning. Fans, fellow wrestlers, and promoters alike expressed their shock and sadness. WWE immediately canceled its scheduled programming for the day and held a special episode of Monday Night Raw in his honor the following week, filled with emotional tributes and heartfelt stories from those who knew and loved him.

WWE Champion Rey Mysterio dedicated his reign to Eddie, and the entire wrestling community came together to honor his legacy. Eddie was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006, with Chavo and Vickie Guerrero accepting on his behalf. His influence continues to be felt today, with younger wrestlers citing him as a major inspiration and fans still chanting his name years later.

The tragedy of Eddie’s death also sparked a renewed conversation about the health and well-being of wrestlers, both during and after their careers. His story became a cautionary tale about the risks of steroid use, painkiller addiction, and the physical demands of professional wrestling — a conversation that continues to this day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the cause of Eddie Guerrero’s death?

Eddie Guerrero died from a heart attack caused by arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The medical examiner confirmed that this condition, which involves the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, was the primary cause of his sudden cardiac arrest.

Was steroid use a factor in Eddie Guerrero’s death?

Yes, steroid use was considered a contributing factor. While the official cause of death was heart disease, long-term use of anabolic steroids, combined with a history of substance abuse and high-stress lifestyle, likely played a role in the progression of his cardiovascular issues.

Who found Eddie Guerrero dead?

Eddie was found unconscious in his Minneapolis hotel room by his cousin, Chavo Guerrero, who tried to revive him but was unsuccessful. Eddie was already deceased when Chavo discovered him on the morning of November 13, 2005.

If you're interested in learning more about the impact of health on wrestling careers, check out this WWE article on wrestler wellness. Also, you can learn more about wrestling legends and their influence on the sport over the years.