WWE Honors Young Fan 'Connor The Crusher' with First-Ever 'Warrior Award'

Update from March 2015

On the March 9 Monday Night Raw, the WWE announced that Connor Michalek, who passed away last April after a fight with pediatric brain cancer at the age of eight, will be the first recipient of the "Warrior Award."

Here's what the WWE had to say about the honor:

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The Warrior Award recognizes a true hero, one who exhibits unwavering strength and perseverance, and who lives life with the courage and compassion that embodies the indomitable spirit of the Ultimate Warrior. It is with tremendous pride that WWE announces the first recipient of the Warrior Award…Connor Michalek.

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Dana Hellwig, the widowed wife of the Ultimate Warrior James Hellwig, offered up a statement of her own, via Facebook:

Original Text

Connor Michalek may have been young, but his fight against cancer and passion toward his idols captivated the hearts of WWE's biggest stars.

In 2012, Connor, who chose the ring name "Connor The Crusher," got to meet—and submit—his idol, Daniel Bryan. In addition, earlier this year, he got the chance to hit and pin Triple H while surrounded by professional wrestling stars chanting and cheering for him.

Connor passed away shortly after WrestleMania XXX this past April. Before he passed, he was able to see Bryan rise to become World Heavyweight champion. After winning the belt, Bryan spotted Connor ringside and immediately embraced him.

Clearly impacted by the brave little boy, WWE put out the above tribute video.

[WWE]