WWE today announced that Shad Gaspard has been posthumously named the recipient of the 2022 Warrior Award.
Named after WWE Hall of Famer The Ultimate Warrior, 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 passed away on May 17, 2020 after he and his son were among a group of swimmers who got caught in a strong current at Marina Del Rey Beach in California. Lifeguards managed to save his 10-year-old son after Gaspard made the ultimate sacrifice, telling lifeguards to save his son instead. A wave later submerged him, preventing rescuers from locating him.
Helicopters, divers, and lifeguards from the U.S. Coast Guard and Los Angeles Lifeguards searched the shore for a couple of days until the search was called off. His lifeless body washed ashore in Venice Beach in the early hours of May 20.