Nick White
The world of professional wrestling is not just about the in-ring action and larger-than-life personas; it’s also a tightly knit community that comes together to celebrate triumphs and support one another through the toughest times. This sense of unity and camaraderie was on full display recently when WWE superstar Becky Lynch paid a heartfelt tribute to her dear friend and fellow wrestler, Dean Merton, who tragically passed away at the age of 35.
Dean Merton, known by his ring name ‘Alexander Dean,’ left behind a legacy that reached far beyond the squared circle. His sudden passing sent shockwaves through the wrestling world and prompted an outpouring of support from Irish wrestlers and fans worldwide.
Becky Lynch, whose real name is Rebecca Quinn, shared a touching tribute to her close friend Dean on social media. In her post, she reflected on the deep bond they shared and the cherished moments they spent together. Lynch’s tribute revealed the genuine friendship they had, forged through their shared passion for wrestling and life’s ups and downs.
“My pal. I wish you knew how special you were. You were kind and genuine and talented and hilarious. I could talk to you about anything. I’m going to miss you,” Lynch wrote in her heartfelt message. She recounted how Dean was one of the first people she informed when she got her WWE tryout, highlighting the pivotal role he played in her wrestling journey.
Lynch and Dean’s friendship wasn’t confined to the wrestling ring alone. They would often embark on journeys together, driving to Bray while discussing life, wrestling, and even CrossFit. Their camaraderie extended to training in freezing cold gyms, sharing laughter, banter, and exchanging wrestling holds. Dean was not just a friend but also a believer in Lynch’s talent and potential.
“I wish I could have been there more. I’ll miss our chats and your jokes. I won’t miss working out with you cause you always killed me. Love you buddy. I’m going to miss you. Rest in Peace,” Lynch concluded her emotional tribute.
Dean Merton, a proud native of Ballymun, Dublin, had a remarkable career in the wrestling world. He graced the rings of various independent promotions, becoming a mainstay in Over The Top Wrestling (OTT), ICW, and WxW. Dean’s dedication to his craft and his unrelenting passion for wrestling endeared him to fans and peers alike.
Beyond wrestling, Dean was a devoted supporter of Bohemians FC, a football club close to his heart. The club expressed their sorrow at his passing, remembering him as a lifelong fan, member, and volunteer who rarely missed a game.
Dean Merton’s untimely death marks the third major loss in the world of professional wrestling in just two weeks, following the passing of Terry Funk and Windham Rotunda (known as Bray Wyatt). These tragic events serve as poignant reminders of the challenges and tribulations that wrestlers face both in and out of the ring.
As the wrestling community mourns the loss of Dean Merton, the heartfelt tribute from Becky Lynch stands as a testament to the enduring bonds forged within the world of professional wrestling. Dean’s memory will live on through the stories, laughter, and shared experiences he leaves behind in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
