Former WWE star Michael Tarver has revealed that he recently suffered a stroke, sharing an emotional and deeply personal message about the experience on Instagram.
The former NEXUS member opened up about the frightening moment in a video post, explaining that he was told he was having a stroke and initially tried to keep it to himself before being urged to seek medical help.
“Last night I was told I was having a Stroke, I don’t EVER emote, I don’t EVER ‘Sell’ as we say in the Wrestling Biz where I spent 20 years of my life. I told nobody, until I was forced to last night. I had a 202/114 blood pressure reading and the few people I told right before taking myself to the ER, I’m thankful for your persistence and also that I actually listened.”
Tarver revealed that as doctors worked to stabilize his condition, he began reflecting on his life, his career, and the struggles he has faced over the years, including battles with depression and thoughts of suicide.
“I was in my bed for a few hours as they were testing and working to get my BP down and I actually started to have thoughts about my mortality. What a way to die… I have never drank or smoked in my life and to fall asleep and not wake up because of my blood pressure. I thought about my babies who are all adults now and all of my years of fighting depression and suicide attempts over the past 20 years.”
The 46-year-old said that the scare gave him a renewed will to live, crediting his faith and family for helping him find strength during the ordeal.
“I thought about my family and I just felt this overwhelming responsibility to get up out of that bed and live. I haven’t shared this much detail with anyone as I am still processing all of the weird emotions I’m being overcome with but the sun came up and so did I. Thank you Jesus 🙏🏿.”
Michael Tarver, whose real name is Tyrone Evans, spent several years with WWE and was best known as a member of The NEXUS faction that debuted in 2010. After his WWE release in 2011, he continued wrestling across the independent circuit and even appeared in New Japan Pro-Wrestling as part of the NWA contingent. His last recorded match was in 2021 at an event in Tampa, Florida.
Tarver’s story is a powerful reminder that even the strongest among us face moments of vulnerability—and that survival sometimes starts with asking for help.
What are your thoughts on Michael Tarver’s emotional message about his stroke and recovery? Share your reactions and send your well-wishes in the comments below.
