UPDATED: Former Rutgers Football Player Eric LeGrand to Receive WWE’s Warrior Award

UPDATE: Dana Warrior had more to say about the honor, writing the following in an official statement:

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 announced today, via press release, that Eric LeGrand, a former standout for the Rutgers University football team turned motivational speaker, 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.

LeGrand was a key player on the Rutgers University football team before a spinal cord injury he sustained during a game in October 2010 left him paralyzed from the neck down. LeGrand resumed his college classes via Skype and also launched his sports broadcasting career as an analyst for Rutgers Football Radio Network. LeGrand founded the charity Team LeGrand of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation in 2013. He had the following to say about the announcement…

“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 offered the following comments on 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.”

Finally, Dana Warrior (widow of The Ultimate Warrior and the one who will present the award at the 2017 WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony) gave the following statement…

“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.”