WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam has strongly defended Joey Janela, Game Changer Wrestling (GCW), and the late Sabu’s use of kratom, pushing back against online criticism that arose following Sabu’s passing and Janela’s prior interview detailing Sabu’s state before his final match. Sabu passed away on May 11th at age 61, three weeks after his retirement bout.
Speaking on his “1 Of A Kind” podcast, RVD refuted claims that GCW should face severe repercussions or that kratom was a factor in Sabu’s death. “I’ve read comments saying, ‘GCW should be arrested on manslaughter.’ Wait, regardless of the cause of death three weeks later? Thank God these people aren’t in control,” RVD stated. He also dismissed comparisons of kratom to hard drugs: “Dutch [Mantel], you know nothing about kratom. It helps so many people.”
RVD, a vocal advocate for kratom, explained its common use: “First off, they [GCW/Janela] didn’t give him the kratom. It was his own people. For sure, Sabu had some kratom. He eats it every day. I usually eat it every day. It’s good for blocking pain, sleeping, and anxiety.” He emphasized, “It had nothing to do with Sabu dying three weeks later. Ya’ll are basic thinkers.”
RVD stressed that Sabu, 61, wanted his final hardcore match. “People are saying, ‘Shame on GCW for allowing a 60-year-old to get in the ring…’ I can tell you… he wanted that… He was training.” RVD revealed Sabu even told him after the Janela match, “‘I got one more match in me. If you’re still interested in doing a barbed wire match, I’m interested.'”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit 1 of a Kind with Rob Van Dam with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
