Terrance Michael Brunk, or Sabu, was a legendary hardcore wrestler known for his fearless style and high-flying moves, but his personal life also shows common themes of love, cultural connection, and heartbreak.
In 1997, Sabu married Hitomi, a Japanese woman who, according to some reports, went by the name Mibu.
Their wedding was a simple but meaningful ceremony on June 22, 1997, in Michigan. But the couple didn’t stop there.
While in Japan for the ECW/FMW Supershow, they celebrated their union with a traditional Japanese wedding in Tokyo on December 12, 1998.
Surrounded by family and friends, Sabu wore a montsuki and hakama, the traditional ceremonial attire for Japanese men, while Hitomi stunned in a hanayome-ishou, a breathtaking bridal costume.
This cross-cultural celebration highlighted their deep connection to both American and Japanese traditions.
Little is known about Hitomi beyond these moments, as she kept a low profile.
Their marriage, however, eventually faced challenges, and the couple separated and later divorced.
While the details of their split remain private, Sabu’s life continued to evolve both in and out of the ring.
In The Mid-2010s, Sabu Found Love Again With Melissa Coates
Melissa Coates, a Canadian professional wrestler, bodybuilder, fitness model, and actress.
Melissa was strong and charismatic. She was well-known for her power and influence.
She became more than just Sabu’s partner she also stepped into the wrestling world as his valet, supporting him ringside until 2021.
Their relationship was built on mutual respect and a passion for the sport.
Tragically, Melissa’s life was cut short on June 23, 2021, at the age of 52.
She passed away due to complications from COVID-19, a loss that shook Sabu and the wrestling community.
In the months leading up to her death, Melissa endured excruciating pain in her left leg, a result of the virus’s devastating effects.
She was admitted to the University Medical Center in Las Vegas, where doctors discovered multiple blood clots.
Despite their efforts to save her leg through several procedures, the clots spread, becoming life-threatening.
In a desperate attempt to save her life, doctors amputated her left leg above the knee.
The surgery, combined with her ongoing rehabilitation, left Melissa facing immense physical and financial challenges.
Sadly, she passed away in her sleep, leaving behind a legacy of strength and determination.
Melissa’s death was a huge loss for Sabu, who had leaned on her strength and companionship.
Fans and friends mourned her, remembering her as a dynamic and inspiring figure in wrestling and fitness.
His Groundbreaking Career In Wrestling Defined Sabu’s Life
Sani was born on December 12, 1964, he began wrestling in 1985 under the guidance of his uncle, Ed Farhat, known as “The Sheik,” in Farhat’s Big Time Wrestling promotion.
as “Sabu the Elephant Boy” and later Terry S.R., he was portrayed as a fierce competitor from Saudi Arabia.
Over the years, Sabu competed in promotions like the United States Wrestling Association, World Wrestling Federation, and World Championship Wrestling.
He made his WCW debut on the September 11, 1995, episode of WCW Monday Nitro.
His international tours, particularly with Japan’s Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling (FMW), cemented his reputation as a global star.
Sabu’s debut in Eastern Championship Wrestling (later Extreme Championship Wrestling) in 1993 introduced his hardcore style to a broader audience, earning him a cult following.
After nearly four decades in the ring, Sabu officially retired from wrestling on November 5, 2021.
His career showed his strength and creativity, which inspired countless wrestlers to embrace the hardcore style.
But his losses, particularly the deaths of Melissa and his own passing in May 2025 at the age of 60, added a bittersweet note to his story. Sabu left behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Sabu’s relationships with Hitomi and Melissa Coates shaped him, combining cultural traditions and showcasing resilience, even as they ended in separation or tragedy.
Sabu’s story shows that even tough fighters have personal struggles. He loved Hitomi and Melissa and approached wrestling with courage. He lived passionately and made a lasting impact on those around him.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Brunk’s father was of Irish and German descent, while his mother was Lebanese.
- In Forever Hardcore, Brunk shares that he chose the name “Sabu” inspired by Indian-American actor Sabu, whom his uncle Ed Farhat admired.
