A Haunting Tribute: WWE's Wyatt Sicks Bring Tears to Fans at Halloween Horror Nights
Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights has unveiled a chilling attraction, bringing a wrestler's dream to life. The Wyatt Sicks, a WWE group, now have their own haunted house, fulfilling the late Windham Rotunda's (aka Bray Wyatt) vision.
The group's eerie appearance, with their creepy masks and towering builds, perfectly suits the Halloween theme. This year, they've taken over both coasts, with a unique house at Universal Orlando Resort.
But here's where it gets personal... The haunted house opens with a chilling scene, recreating a backstage massacre at a wrestling match. This mirrors the Wyatt Sicks' debut on WWE 'Raw', a moment fans won't forget. For newcomers, it's a disturbing welcome to Windham's world.
Windham's brother, Taylor Rotunda, reveals his brother's dream: "Windham wanted a house at Halloween Horror Nights even before he created Bray Wyatt." This dream, born in 2008, seemed far-fetched, but it's now a reality.
Bray Wyatt, a former WWE champion, embraced horror and darkness in his career. He led the Wyatt Family wrestling stable and later transformed into 'The Fiend', a standalone horror character.
A twist of fate: Mike Aiello, Universal Orlando's senior director, is a wrestling enthusiast. His excitement over 'The Fiend' sparked a conversation with Windham, leading to an unexpected collaboration.
Tragically, Windham passed away in 2023 at just 36 years old. But his legacy lives on.
The Wyatt Sicks, a wrestling stable, are Windham's brainchild. They debuted as puppets in WWE promo videos, 'Firefly Fun House', leading up to 'The Fiend's' arrival. The characters include Uncle Howdy, Ramblin' Rabbit, Mercy the Buzzard, Huskus the Pig Boy, and Abby the Witch, each handpicked by Windham.
Their live debut last summer was like a 'haunted house on live TV'. This inspired the creation of the haunted house, bringing Windham's dream to fruition.
The Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks: Guests step into the group's TV debut, exploring the Firefly Fun House and rooms dedicated to each member. A cabin represents the Wyatt Family compound, evoking emotions.
"It was emotional," said Eric Rowan (Ramblin' Rabbit), remembering his and Jonathan Huber's (Luke Harper/Brodie Lee) passing. "It made me smile and sad at the same time."
The house is filled with hidden gems. A white sheep's mask pays homage to Rowan's Wyatt Family days. A clock set to 7:13 recalls the Wyatt Family's main roster debut.
"Windham's mind was unique," Taylor said. "You'll discover something new each time you visit."
Dexter Lumis (Mercy the Buzzard) shared his surprise: "I saw a poster of my match with The Miz, and then a dead Miz corpse!"
Guests encounter the Wyatt Sicks and The Fiend, but not Bray Wyatt. Aiello explains, "Bray is Windham's persona. We use his videos, voice, and photos to honor him."
Windham's iconic lantern is also featured, carried by the Wyatt Sicks.
The fans, known as Fireflies, are an integral part of the experience. Their phone lights shine like fireflies in the dark at matches. In the house, they're represented by starry lights, a painting, and a scareactor.
"Making the Fireflies physical was incredible," Taylor smiled.
The Fireflies are central to Windham's and the Wyatt Sicks' story. Lumis reflects, "I've never felt this way in 20 years. It's like Windham and Jon are watching over us."
The house evokes strong emotions, says Ramon Paradoa, show director. "It's unlike any other, leaving fans in tears. It's a tribute to Windham's genius."
While the house caters to WWE fans, it's also a horror lover's dream.
"It's pure horror," says Rowan. Paradoa aimed to engage non-wrestling fans, encouraging them to learn more about the characters.
Jump scares abound, including a symbolic reunion of Windham and Taylor through The Fiend and Uncle Howdy. Taylor feels Windham's presence in every step of their journey.
The Wyatt Sicks have more of Windham's stories to share, ensuring his legacy continues to thrill fans.
