Painkillers, muscle relaxant linked to death of former pro Texas wrestler

HOUSTON - An autopsy report says the December death of former pro wrestler Edward Fatu, who performed under the name "Umaga," was cause primarily by the combined effects of painkillers and a muscle relaxant.

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences classified 36-year-old Edward Fatu's death as "accidental" in the nine-page report released this week, which also noted hypertensive cardiovascular disease as a cause.

A World Wrestling Entertainment spokesman told the Chronicle on Tuesday that Fatu was released from his contract in June for refusing to enter a rehabilitation program related to drugs.

A call to Fatu's home rang busy Tuesday night.

Fatu was found unconscious at his Spring home on Dec. 3 and died after being taken to a hospital.