Sabus retirement match against Joey Janela atGCW Spring Break 9 is now a controversial topic as fans accused GCW of drugging Sabu before the match as Sabu had Kratom and condemned Joey Janela in particular. In light of all the backlash, RVD has now come to Joey Janela and GCWs defense.
While speaking on his 1 of a Kind podcast, RVD stood up for Janela and GCW, saying the fans were overreacting and didnt know the full story. He said someone even claimed GCW should be charged with manslaughter, which he thought was ridiculous.
RVD also responded to Dutch Mantel, who said kratom is worse than heroin. RVD disagreed and said Dutch doesnt understand kratom. RVD explained that he uses kratom often for pain, sleep, and anxiety. He said it comes from the coffee plant family and can be made into powder, capsules, drinks, or gummies. He admitted it tastes bad but believes its helpful for many people.
RVD said people can become addicted to kratom, just like they can to chocolate. On the podcast, he took a big dose of kratom live and told listeners to see if he acted any differently.
The Whole FN Show made it clear that kratom and GCW had nothing to do with Sabus death three weeks later. He said people are jumping to conclusions without thinking. He also said Sabu really wanted to have that match and had been training for it.
After the match, Sabu even said he had one more left in him and was interested in doing another barbed wire match. Van Dam said he once talked with Sabu about being his last opponent, but Sabu didnt want to take an easy way out.
RVDs defense is just a reminder to look at both sides before jumping to conclusions, especially during such sad situations. As fans remember Sabu, its clear that his final match was something he truly wanted to do, not something he was forced into.
What are your thoughts on RVDs comments and the kratom controversy? Do you think GCW or Joey Janela hold any responsibility, or was Sabu fully in control of his choices? Leave your thoughts in the comments!
