Wrestling World Rallies Around AEW Star With ALS Diagnosis

When professional wrestler Tanea Brooks announced her ALS diagnosis on May 1, the entire wrestling world stopped competing and started caring.

Brooks, 47, who performed as Rebel in All Elite Wrestling, shared the news in a video that has now been picked up by People Magazine and dozens of mainstream outlets. The diagnosis came while she was already battling primary pulmonary lymphoma, discovered by doctors at the Mayo Clinic during pre-surgery prep.

The response has been extraordinary. Wrestlers from WWE, AEW, TNA, Stardom, and independent promotions have flooded her social media with thousands of messages. Matt Hardy wrote, "You are dominating my thoughts. My prayers are dedicated to you." WWE star Alexa Bliss added, "Sending you so many prayers."

What makes this support even more remarkable is that many wrestlers reaching out never even worked with Brooks. They're doing it simply because she's part of their extended family.

Why This Inspires

Brooks hasn't appeared on AEW television since August 2022, yet her employer has stood by her through every step of this medical crisis. In her announcement video, she made a point to thank AEW CEO Tony Khan directly.

"I want to say thank you to Tony Khan and AEW for supporting me on this medical journey," Brooks said through tears. "It has been a blessing that is unheard of."

That phrase hits hard: "unheard of." In an industry known for independent contractors and limited benefits, a company quietly supporting someone behind the scenes for nearly two years speaks volumes. No cameras, no publicity until Brooks chose to share her story.

Brooks's longtime friend Christy Hemme, who originally helped her break into TNA wrestling, has been one of her most consistent supporters through both her cancer diagnosis and now ALS. The wrestling community has proven that the bonds formed in the ring extend far beyond it.

Brooks timed her announcement for May 1, the first day of ALS Awareness Month. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, progressively attacks motor neurons and currently has no cure. The ALS Association remains the world's largest philanthropic funder of research seeking one.

In her video, Brooks asked for prayers for "a peaceful journey and a peaceful passing." But what she's already received is proof that she's leaving behind something powerful: a community that knows how to show up when it matters most.