Beloved Wrestler Tanea Brooks Diagnosed With ALS At 47
The wrestling universe received heartbreaking news this weekend regarding Tanea Brooks.
Brooks, who goes by the ring name Rebel, worked for TNA and Ohio Valley Wrestling before joining All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2019. Five years later, she was sadly diagnosed with primary pulmonary lymphoma.
After nearly two years searching for answers to her medical complications, Brooks revealed that she has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
"First, I want to say thank you for all of your prayers because, for those who know, it's been a two-year medical journey trying to find out what is wrong. Finally, our prayers have been answered," Brooks said, via Us Weekly. "The thing is, sometimes we don't want to hear that answer to our prayers. And so, while I was waiting to have lung surgery for the masses on my lung, the doctors at Mayo [Clinic] finally found what's going on."
Unfortunately, Brooks said her functions have already started declining at a rapid rate.
"There is not a lot of research behind ALS, and we don't know how long I have," Brooks said. "It explains why I have trouble walking and talking [and] all my functions will soon decline."
Brooks finished her video by sharing this heartbreaking message: "Please continue to pray for a peaceful journey and a peaceful passing. I love you"
Wrestlers keeping Brooks in their prayers.
Countless former and current wrestlers responded to this announcement from Brooks, and as you'd imagine, they're all devastated for her.
"Oh babe I'm so sorry," WWE legend Torrie Wilson said. "You are an utter angel and I have no doubt that your courageous heart will be helping millions by sharing this. I love you."
"I love you my beautiful friend," former WWE star Chavo Guerrero Jr. said. "Thank you for giving so many people strength."
"Sending you all the love. My prayers are with you Rebel," WWE superstar Jade Cargill wrote.
"May God bless you and keep you going . My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family," D-Von Dudley commented. "God bless you, my friend."
We're certainly wishing Brooks and her loved ones all the best during this challenging time.
Copyright The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published May 2, 2026 at 4:13 PM.