Why was Tammy Sytch fired from WWE? Wrestling Hall of Famer faces trial for DUI manslaughter charge
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA: A trial date has been set for Tamara Sytch, accused of killing an elderly man while drunk driving last spring, in 2022. The WWE Hall of Famer's trial begins on Monday, August 21.
In 2022, Sytch was arrested on a DUI manslaughter charge after the demise of Julian LaFrancis Lasseter, a 75-year-old resident of Daytona Beach.
Following the crash, Sytch's blood-alcohol level was measured at 0.280. The forthcoming episode of the 'Going Ringside' podcast, due to air on August 16, will spotlight this case.
Coincidentally, August 16 also corresponds with Sytch court appearance for 'docket sounding' to determine her readiness for a trial for her alleged crime.
Who is Tammy Sytch?
Tamara Lynn Sytch, now aged 49, gained widespread recognition because of her wrestling moves when she was in WWE.
She used several ring names like Sunny, Tammy Spirit, Tammy Lynn Fytch, and Tamara Murphy. She was a prominent figure in the wrestling world during the 1990s.
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Her versatile career till now encompasses roles as a former wrestler, manager, valet, adult entertainer, and former ring announcer.
In 1996, Sytch earned the distinction of being regarded as the first WWE Diva, securing additional recognition when AOL labeled her as the "most downloaded celebrity" on the internet.
Her professional journey commenced with Smoky Mountain Wrestling, spanning from 1992 to 1995, initiated as she accompanied her then-partner, Chris Candido, on their travels.
Transitioning to the WWE, Sytch debuted in 1993, etching her name in history as the organization's inaugural Diva.
Why was Tammy Sytch fired from WWE?
While achieving prominence in WWE, Sytch's trajectory was marred by controversies. Her departure in 1998 was attributed to multiple incidents, including her unscheduled absences from appearances and interviews, alongside rumors of conflicts with Sable, who was gaining more attention in the WWE Universe, fostering backstage issues.
A pivotal factor in her release from WWE was her struggle with a painkiller addiction and its resultant complications. This marked her final involvement with WWE, though not her last appearance in the wrestling franchise.
Sytch made noteworthy appearances during the 15th Anniversary of Raw event and notably took part in WrestleMania 25 on April 5, 2009.
Despite her contributions, her extensive criminal record has prompted several wrestlers and fans to advocate for her removal from the Hall of Fame.
What happened with Chris Candido and Sytch?
The story of Chris Candido is a tragic and cautionary one, characterized by a tumultuous professional journey marked by highs and lows.
Chris and his partner, Sytch, known as Sunny, were featured in the docuseries 'Dark Side of the Ring' on May 30, 2023.
Chris Candido and Sytch ventured into Vince McMahon's WWE in 1995 with hopes of achieving success. However, Chris faced a downward trajectory in his career while Sytch's popularity soared.
The couple's on-screen and off-screen relationship was turbulent, exacerbated by their drug usage and Sunny's unpredictable behavior, which ultimately led to their separation.
Allegedly, the hostile locker room culture and backstage politics of the '90s, hindered Candido's progress in WWE.
During this period, Sytch initiated a relationship with top star Shawn Michaels. Frustrated by the environment, Chris shifted to Paul Heyman's ECW, which Sytch also joined.
However, their challenges persisted, resulting in financial struggles and debt.
Candido was on a path to recovery when he collapsed and was hospitalized on April 28, 2005.
Tragically, he passed away at the young age of 33, attributed to pneumonia. Chris and Stych became casualties of the glitzy world of professional wrestling, succumbing to drug addiction.
Chris heavily relied on painkillers to manage his addiction, ultimately leading to his untimely demise.
Did WWE remove Tamara Sunny Sytch from the Hall of Fame?
At present, Sytch retains her position within the esteemed hall; however, both fans and figures within the industry have voiced requests for her expulsion.
WWE has not yet provided a response, although Sunny has voiced her discontent towards the appeals for her removal, which also include criticism aimed at the controversial ex-WWE trainer, Bill DeMott.
"I think Bill Demott should be removed from the WWE Hall of Fame! Ohhh that’s rite, he was never inducted."
"He was too busy sexually harassing female talent and degrading male talent as well. Yet he is worried about a crime that has NOT even been proven in a court of law yet??” Sytch later wrote on twitter
I think Bill Demott should be removed from the WWE hall of fame! Ohhh that’s rite, he was never inducted. He was too busy sexually harassing female talent and degrading male talent as well. Yet he is worried about a crime that has NOT even been proven in a court of law yet??
— Tamara Sytch (@firstdivaSunny) May 11, 2022
In the 25-Diva battle royal, aiming to be crowned "Miss WrestleMania," she was one of the contenders among the twenty-five women. However, the competition concluded with her elimination by fellow wrestler Beth Phoenix.
Reflecting her significant influence and accomplishments in the wrestling domain, Sytch was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on April 2, 2011.
In 2021, the WWE Network featured Sytch as one of the prominent female performers who left a substantial impact on WWE beyond the wrestling ring.