Shad Gaspard To Receive Warrior Award

WWE announced today that Shad Gaspard has posthumously been named the recipient of the 2022 Warrior Award. 

The award presentation will take place during the 2022 WWE Hall Of Fame Ceremony on Friday, April 1, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, following that night's episode of SmackDown. The ceremony will air on Peacock in the United States and on WWE Network internationally. 

WWE noted: "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."

Gaspard tragically passed away in May 2020 after he and his 10-year-old-son became caught in a strong current while swimming in Venice Beach, California. Gaspard directed rescuers to help his son first and by the time they returned, Gaspard had been hit by another wave and washed out to sea. His passing was confirmed a couple of days later. 

Gaspard had a successful career in WWE, performing for the company from 2002 until 2010 and he is fondly remembered as one-half of Cryme Tyme with JTG. 

The Warrior Award has been a part of the WWE Hall Of Fame ceremony since 2015. Past recipients include Connor 'The Crusher' Michalek, Joan Lunden, Eric LeGrand, Jarrius 'JJ' Robertson, Sue Aitchison, Titus O'Neil, and Rich Hering.