Kurt Angle, deflecting rumors that his health was being compromised by painkiller addiction, sent a notice through his press manager that he is in “perfect health.”
The release, which was triggered by an article the week of Eddie Guerrero’s death in the Pro Wrestling Torch that suggested a “top wrestler in WWE today who is considered to be on the unofficial death watch, whose death, due to his credentials, would make the considerable news coverage of Eddie Guerrero’s death this week look minor by comparison.” The item, which stated that “it’s not secret to most within WWE,” was criticized in some circles but the story began to become widely associated with Angle.
Angle, who started working with WWE in 1999, has had more injuries in his limited time with the company than almost anyone else, and admitted some degree of reliance on painkilling drugs in a documentary last year by WWE Films called “The Mania of WrestleMania.” Medical examiners who performed an autopsy on Eddie Guerrero have said that his use of narcotics may have played some role in his death.
“Thank you for your many kind comments, prayers and concern about me, but, again, I am healthy and in great shape,” said Angle in the statement, released to several outlets, including the Torch. “Yes, naturally I have a few minor aches and pains due to bumps and bruises but certainly nothing at all life-threatening or anything that will keep me from participating in the ring. Also, I DO NOT nor would I EVER do anything that would jeopardize my health or my life, as has been fabricated on many website chat rooms.”
Angle also stated that he appreciated the genuine concern. “I have the greatest respect for all my fans, my family and everyone at WWE. I will never let you guys down.”
