UPDATE: Dana Warrior posted the following, reacting to Eric LeGrand recieving this year’s “Warrior Award”:
What better recipient could WWE have chosen for The Warrior Award than a man who wraps himself in a single word…BELIEVE?!?
Eric LeGrand is an inspirational warrior, championing his OWN campaign to explore and fund research with the belief he and others will walk again. Eric’s never quit mentality is the catalyst for spinal cord research, and his brand of passion and positivity a source of massive inspiration and encouragement. Eric is the sort of man capable of reminding us all what the warrior spirit genuinely encompasses. Telling his story and shining a light on his perseverance and service is an honor. I am humbled by the privilege of inducting Eric LeGrand into the 2017 Hall of Fame class.
Eric is the ULTIMATE selection as this year’s Warrior Award recipient. Through his mental discipline and with his positively passionate message, he has done nothing less than made the choice to ALWAYS BELIEVE!!!
On behalf of my Warrior Girls and my husband’s legion of Warriors around the globe, heartfelt congratulations, Mr. LeGrand, on being selected to receive this year’s Warrior Award!!
ORIGINAL: WWE sent out a press release on Monday, revealing that former Rutgers University football standout turned motivational speaker Eric LeGrand has been named the recipient of the third annual Warrior Award. The Warrior Award is presented to “an individual who has exhibited unwavering strength and perseverance and who lives life with the courage and compassion that embodies the indomitable spirit of The Ultimate Warrior”.
While LeGrand was a star player for the Rutgers University football team, he suffered a spinal cord injury during a game in October of 2010 that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Following the injury, LeGrand continued to take part in his college classes through Skype and also launched his sports broadcasting career. He now works as an analyst for Rutgers Football Radio Network. LeGrand also founded the charity Team LeGrand of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation in 2013. LeGrand said,
“It is an absolute honor to be named the 2017 Warrior Award recipient. I am truly grateful for WWE’s support of my personal journey and I am proud to continue to be an example of strength for people everywhere.”
Stephanie McMahon also said the following regarding LeGrand receiving the award…
“Eric LeGrand has shown incredible perseverance and unwavering positivity throughout his recovery. From the work he does helping others with spinal cord injuries to his motivational speaking, Eric is the perfect choice for this prestigious award.”
And lastly, Dana Warrior (the widow of The Ultimate Warrior and the one who will present the award at the 2017 WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony) said the following…
“Eric LeGrand truly embodies the Warrior spirit with his determination and positive outlook. I am honored to present this year’s Warrior Award to Eric at the WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.”
