John Hopper, a professional wrestler known as Luke Harper and Brodie Lee in WWE and AEW, dies at 41 from a “ non-COVID lung problem, ” says his wife

PHILADELPHIA – Professional wrestler John Hopper, known in the ring as both Luke Harper and Mr. Brody Lee, died Saturday at the age of 41, according to World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

Hopper wrestled with WWE and most recently with All-Elite Wrestling (AEW). His wife, Amanda Huber, said on Instagram that her husband “died surrounded by loved ones after a grueling battle with a lung problem unrelated to COVID”. According to Huber’s wife, he was being treated by doctors at Mayo Clinic.

Amanda Hopper wrote:

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“In an industry full of good people, John Hopper was exceptionally respected and loved in everything – a fierce and captivating talent, a thoughtful mentor and a very kind spirit that stood in stark contrast to his character as Mr. Brody Lee,” AEW wrote in a tribute to Huber.

WWE has said that Huber “has achieved success at every stop of his sports-entertainment career, with his gentle yet majestic presence helping him create countless moments in the ring.”

Hopper wrestled with WWE for eight years, most of that time as a member of the Wyatt Family, before making his AEW debut in March as the leader of the Dark Order faction.

WWE’s Chief Branding Officer Stephanie McMahon said, “I am deeply sorry for the loss of John Hopper. We held together because of the love of our children. He was a true family man.”

AEW President Tony Khan said, “I was devastated by the loss of John Hopper, known to admirers of Mr. Brody Lee, formerly Luke Harper. John was a great man. His family came first, his loving wife Amanda and their children Brody + Nolan. He loved wrestling and was great at it, love your fans. Please keep it in your hearts. “

Huber is a former NXT Tag Team Champion, Intercontinental Champion, and SmackDown Tag Team Champion in WWE. Won the TNT Championship in AEW.

He left his wife and two children behind.

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CNN contributed to this report.