"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Last night on 'Monday Night RAW', the WWE presented a special tribute show, recognizing the career of Chris Benoit. However, now some 26 hours later, the facts of this horrific tragedy are now apparent. Therefore, other than my comments, there will be no mention of Mr. Benoit's name tonight. On the contrary, tonight's show will be dedicated to everyone who has been affected by this terrible incident. This evening marks the first step of the healing process. Tonight, the WWE performers will do what they do better than anyone else in the world: entertain you."-Vince McMahon
A year ago tommorow, these were the words of WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. WWE "Superstar" Chris Benoit was found dead in his home alongside his wife Nancy and his 7 year old son Daniel the night before. On June 25, 2007, the day of the occurance, WWE cancelled its planned 3 hour edition of its signature show "Monday Night RAW" in order to observe the tragedy. Once they learned that Chris Benoit was the murderer of his fellow family members, the company officially released that statement. With no suicide note left however, what could have been Benoit's motive to commit such a horrific crime?
Immediately, questions of "'Roid Rage" were brought up. For those who don't know what "'Roid Rage" is, it is a case of overuse of steroids, in which the body becomes hard to control. Usually, violent rages result. However, WWE refused this claim as a possibile motive. Their problem, they had no proof. This brought upon much arguement, and the company would go on to have 11 performers be suspended in the last year due to substance abuse.
It is not just professional wrestling however that has undergone a brush with drugs. In 2003, Major League Baseball held a random drug test for all players, and 7.6% of 750 players tested positive for steroids. The number has since gone down, but has shown the dangers brought upon by the pressure to succeed and do well. The MLB now has a more strict policy now, especially after the unbelievable findings of the 2007 Mitchell Report. The NFL has an automatic 4-Game Suspension for first time offenders, while the NHL and NBA have mildly strict punishments as well. The PGA will begin testing for steroids this Summer, and Horse Racing is taking a more strict stand. Cycling has taken a stance as well, planning to test all participants in the Tour De France at least twice prior to the race.
It is not a matter however of what only goes on professionally, as more and more high school/collegiate students are found dead each year from steroids themselves or 'Roid Rages. It is important for all to realize that steroids do not improve performance, but cripples it if anything. If anyone knows someone who is taking steroids or similar drugs, it is important to make it known as soon as possible.
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