Former WWE Star Vader Says He Has 2 Years to Live Due to Heart Failure

Former WWE star Vader tweeted Nov. 15 that he was told he has two years to live due to congestive heart failure.  

According to Vader, whose real name is Leon White, two doctors informed him that the condition of his heart deteriorated due to the effects of wrestling and playing football. 

However, on Tuesday, Vader tweeted that a fourth doctor told him that the "gloom and doom" the previous three doctors gave him "may not be the case."

In addition to serving as a standout in the ring, the 61-year-old was a one-time member of the Los Angeles Rams after the team selected him in the third round of the 1978 NFL draft. 

Before his brief stint in the NFL, White developed into a strong offensive lineman for the Colorado Buffaloes thanks to his imposing frame. 

According to WWE's official biography, Vader weighed 450 pounds at the time of his debut with the company and proceeded to capture three heavyweight titles. In 2012, Vader returned to WWE to defeat Heath Slater to much fanfare. 

Vader also competed for a title at SummerSlam in 1996, but he was bested by Shawn Michaels in a thrilling singles match. He later defeated The Undertaker at Royal Rumble one year later, but his time with WWE came to an end shortly thereafter.

Following a successful run in WWE, Vader returned to All Japan Pro Wrestling.