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Jerry Lawler was by his son's side for final moments

Posted: Aug 1st 2018 By: Zach Crenshaw

Jerry Lawler spoke for the first time Monday, as the investigation continues into the death of his son, former professional wrestler Brian Lawler.

Jerry Lawler told FOX13 over the phone that he was with his son during his final moments in the hospital.

Lawler said he rushed back to Memphis from North Carolina Sunday morning after getting the word that his son was in the hospital.

He spent hours at Regional One, with family and friends, around his son’s bed.

He said it was not easy, but he said was “glad to hold his son’s hand when his heart stopped beating around 3:30 p.m.”

Lawler said his family has been so appreciative of the support from friends and fans. He said they have heard from thousands of people.

Lawler told FOX13 the visitation and funeral service will be held Friday at Hope Church on Walnut Grove. The visitation starts at noon and the service will begin at 2 p.m.

He was the son of wrestling royalty, but Brian Christopher Lawler blazed a path of his own.

Lawler wrestled professionally for years under the nickname ‘Grand Master Sexay.’

He was confident, flamboyant and loved to put on a show. People in the wrestling community nationwide shared stories online.

One professional wrestler recounted the time his brother asked to dance with Brian. After the match the man wrote that, “Brian pulled my brother in the ring to do the word. Such an awesome memory.”

The wrestler Rikishi took to Instagram and said he will miss Brian’s infections smile, laugh and “his passion to entertain each and every person he came in contact with.”

Lawler had several run-ins with the law since 2009. He was arrested earlier this month for his third DUI offense and evading arrest.

The Hardeman County Sheriff’s Office said they had no indication that Lawler was suicidal.

According to the TBI, he was found hanging in his cell and never recovered after being rushed to Regional One.

Lawler spoke only briefly of the investigation saying, “There may be more to this than meets the eye.”

The TBI called him this morning and asked him not to comment further until their investigation is complete.

Meanwhile, the wrestling community and Lawler family continues to grieve.

Fans across the country are remembering the man in the ring, who brought smiles to so many.