Former Wrestler Speaks Out Amid Steroid Controversy

July 13, 2007

Wrestling, and the sport's reputation for steroid use, is thrown once again into the spotlight after authorities say they found steroids and prescription drugs in the house of Chris Benoit, a pro wrestler who killed both his wife and son before taking his own life.

Former WWE wrestler Marc Mero, or as he was known in the 90s "Johnny B. Badd," says he can be silent no longer about what he calls a way of life within the wrestling world, a life of steroid and drug abuse.

Mero, who actually wrestled with Benoit, says because of the lifestyle and image the industry wants wrestlers to present, many feel pressured to take these drugs.

"I’ve watched 104 wrestlers in 10 years die,” Mero said. “I've wrestled 25 of these wrestlers and these are the people who kids and who have wives. Something needs to be done."

Mero hopes to start a program this fall where he and other celebrities will tour schools and talk about the dangers of drugs and steroids.