WWF.com statement on Haas' death, XWF TV situation, WWF Mag. preview Submitted by William Martinez on Saturday, December 15, 2001 at 5:02 PM EST
WWF.com released the following statement regarding the death of Russ Haas:
Developmental talent Russ Hass, 27, dies in his sleep
World Wrestling Federation Entertainment today said that Russ Hass, one of its developmental talent, died in his sleep last night. He was 27 years old.
Hass, at the time of his death, had not been active in wrestling because of a heart condition that had been diagnosed several months ago. He had been cleared recently by his cardiologist to return to active wrestling. At the WWF's request, Hass had been scheduled to be examined for a second opinion this coming Tuesday before returning to in-ring action.
"Russ Hass was one of our shining lights at Heartland Wrestling Association, and he was an even better human being," said Jim Ross, Senior Vice President, Talent Relations. "Our deepest sympathies go out to the Hass family. Russ will truly be missed by all who knew him."
In a recent radio interview, the XWF's Jimmy Hart stated that Vince McMahon sent him a thank you message for his help in letting Jerry Lawler get out of his contract with the company to return to the WWF.
Hart also confirmed that the XWF is currently in negotiations to get a television deal in several big markets such as New York.
