Over the weekend BBC published an article http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-33817959 examining the trend of pro wrestlers dying young, and noted cardiovascular disease was the most common cause of death. Additionally, the report notes the rate of death for wrestlers between the ages of 45 and 54 was nearly 3x greater than the rate for men in the U.S.

In response to the article, WWE issued the following statement to BBC:

Unfortunately, some past performers were part of a generation of wrestlers who made unhealthy and poor personal lifestyle choices, which in some cases continued beyond their years in the ring.

Today’s athletes take great pride and personal responsibility for their overall health and well-being. Notwithstanding, WWE talent are subject to random drug testing and expected to live healthy lifestyles.

I don't think it's any secret that a lot of drugs went through the locker rooms in the eighties and nineties.

It was drugs in the 80s/90s and steroids in the 2000s. Some went early and some had it catch up to them eventually when it was too late.

Drugs, steroids, the road schedule promotes alcoholism and poor dieting.