Tyrus: From WWE Star to Patriot of the Year — A Transformation That’s About More Than Just Looks

In April 2025, former WWE star Tyrus, known for his imposing presence and once larger-than-life character as Brodus Clay, received one of the most prestigious honors of his life—being named the 2024 Patriot of the Year by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Foundation (FLEOA). However, while the recognition for his support of law enforcement and fallen officers was significant, what truly caught the public’s eye was Tyrus’s dramatic physical transformation. No longer relying on a cane, the man once known for his size and powerful wrestling persona was unrecognizable in the best possible way.

A New Chapter in Tyrus’ Life

“Truly humbled tonight to receive the 2024 Patriot of the Year award… I humbly and honorably accepted this great award!” Tyrus wrote on his social media, expressing his gratitude and pride for the honor. The award itself is a significant recognition from the FLEOA, given to individuals who have shown unwavering support for law enforcement and the families of fallen officers. It is given to those who go above and beyond in supporting the nation’s protectors. But for Tyrus, who spent years in the limelight as a WWE wrestler and now appears as a commentator and public figure, the award wasn’t the only thing drawing attention that night.

As he stepped onto the stage to accept the honor, it wasn’t just his support for law enforcement that people were talking about—it was his newfound physical health. Tyrus, who had struggled with his weight and mobility, was no longer the man who once relied on a cane to walk, and his physical transformation has been nothing short of inspiring.

The Struggles Behind the Transformation

Not long ago, Tyrus was in a different place. As recently as a year ago, he had wrapped up his final wrestling match—a brutal Bullrope showdown against EC3 for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. At the time, Tyrus admitted to the physical toll the sport had taken on his body, revealing that he weighed between 375 and 500 pounds and used a cane to help him walk due to his joint pain and overall health struggles.

However, Tyrus wasn’t content to simply accept his physical limitations. After stepping away from the ring, he embarked on a journey to improve his health—not just for the sake of his body but for his life as a whole. It was no longer about gimmicks or quick fixes; it was about committing to an everyday battle, one that required hard work, self-discipline, and the mental fortitude to face the mirror every day.

In an interview with Muscle & Fitness, Tyrus opened up about the mental struggle behind his physical transformation. “Before, if I was having a bad day, I’d grab a Snickers or a sandwich or twenty,” he said. The emotional connection to food, particularly as a way to cope with stress or frustration, is something many people can relate to, but for Tyrus, it was a habit he knew he had to break.

Now, Tyrus has embraced a simpler approach. “If you eat less, and burn more, you lose weight. And if you don’t, you don’t. It’s that simple.” His frankness about his journey is refreshing—he doesn’t rely on the latest diet trends or shortcuts. Instead, he’s focused on consistency, discipline, and making healthier choices every day.

The most powerful moment in Tyrus’ transformation came when he shared his victory over one of the physical crutches that had once limited his life: his cane. “I couldn’t wait to see how far I could throw it across the yard, because I was done with it,” he told Muscle & Fitness, marking a symbolic victory in his recovery. To many, throwing the cane away wasn’t just about shedding an object—it was a triumph over the limitations that had once kept him from living life to its fullest potential.

A Patriot, a Fighter, and a Family Man

While Tyrus may no longer be in the ring, his career as a public figure and advocate continues to grow. His influence now extends beyond the wrestling world, reaching people who admire him not just for his entertainment value but for his real-world dedication to causes that matter.

As a Fox News contributor, Tyrus has built a reputation for speaking out on issues that matter to everyday Americans. He has become an outspoken advocate for veterans and law enforcement, using his platform to raise awareness and support for those who serve the country. His new identity as a public figure is rooted in his genuine love for his country and his unwavering belief in the importance of standing up for those who protect it.

In his acceptance speech for the 2024 Patriot of the Year award, Tyrus gave a heartfelt tribute to those who serve in law enforcement. “The true heroes are the men and women who serve and protect this great nation,” he said, reinforcing his role as a voice for those who too often go underappreciated. While his acceptance of the award was not marked by grand speeches or dramatic moments, for his long-time fans, seeing him walk across the stage without the aid of a cane was the most powerful statement of all.

Beyond his work as a public figure, Tyrus is also a devoted father. His personal life, particularly his role as a father, is a key part of his motivation. As he continues to balance his career with his family life, Tyrus remains a steadfast figure who understands the importance of responsibility. “Nobody else in the world do my kids look to, other than me, to be Dad,” he says. “Why wouldn’t I be excited about that?”

Strength Redefined: A Message of Hope

Tyrus’ transformation isn’t just about losing weight or gaining strength. It’s about redefining what it means to be resilient. Strength, for him, is no longer about just physical muscle—it’s about choosing to face each day with purpose and determination, even when it’s hard.

His journey from wrestling to becoming an advocate for veterans and law enforcement, combined with his personal transformation, has made Tyrus a symbol of hope for many. He is proof that it’s never too late to make a change, to embrace responsibility, and to rise above your circumstances. His message resonates with anyone facing challenges—whether physical, mental, or emotional.

The moment Tyrus walked across the stage, no longer reliant on a cane and standing tall as the 2024 Patriot of the Year, was a visual representation of his journey. It’s a reminder that strength isn’t just about power—it’s about resilience, purpose, and showing up every day, no matter what life throws at you.

A New Chapter for Tyrus

As Tyrus continues to build his legacy, his journey is far from over. Whether it’s through his contributions to the media, his advocacy for law enforcement and veterans, or his personal victories, Tyrus is proving that resilience is about much more than physical recovery. It’s about showing up for your family, your community, and most importantly, yourself.

The $16 million honor, the transformation, and the inspiration he offers to others are all part of Tyrus’ larger message: You can overcome. You can rise. And you can do it with strength, dignity, and purpose.