Tanea Brooks, a professional wrestler known as Rebel, revealed her terminal ALS diagnosis in an emotional video shared on May 1, 2026. The 47-year-old has faced a challenging medical journey over the past two years.
Brooks stated, “Please continue to pray for a peaceful journey and a peaceful passing. I love you.” She expressed gratitude towards AEW and its president, Tony Khan, for their unwavering support throughout her health struggles.
Brooks was diagnosed with primary pulmonary lymphoma in 2024. Since November 2025, she has been using a walker due to a functional neurological disorder. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, causes muscle weakness, slurred speech, and eventual paralysis.
Patients typically live three to five years after receiving an ALS diagnosis. Brooks noted the uncertainty surrounding her condition: “There is not a lot of research behind ALS, and we don’t know how long I have.” This lack of clarity adds to the emotional weight of her announcement.
She joined AEW in 2019 and quickly became a beloved figure in the wrestling community. Her resilience and dedication to her craft have inspired many fans and fellow wrestlers alike.
Key facts about Tanea Brooks:
- Tanea Brooks is 47 years old.
- She was diagnosed with primary pulmonary lymphoma in 2024.
- Brooks has been using a walker since November 2025 due to functional neurological disorder.
- ALS causes significant muscle weakness and affects speech.
- She thanked supporters for their prayers and asked them to continue praying for her.
This heartfelt message resonates deeply within the wrestling community. As fans rally around Brooks during this difficult time, her story serves as a reminder of the challenges many face with terminal illnesses.
