Seven years ago, the stage was set in Nashville, Tennessee, on December 2 for an episode of WWE Raw. In walked a stock car racing driver who first took to the track at just six years old and became WWE’s 24/7 Champion for a minute after pinning R-Truth with help from Michael Waltrip. Yes, that was Kyle Busch. So it comes as no surprise that the American sports world reacted emotionally to the news of his sudden passing.

‘Rowdy’ wasn’t simply a NASCAR driver. His larger-than-life behavior was one of the many reasons why he defined his own era in the Cup Series. Besides claiming victories and bringing in star power to the Truck Series, Busch would also end up dropping an amazing one-liner during the Cup events.

Not just that, the 41-year-old had also left no stone unturned when it came to expanding his resume. Just take the example of Kyle Busch Motorsports. He spent so much time developing his team that it brought seven Truck championships: 2010, 2019, and five consecutive titles from 2013 to 2017.

In fact, KBM was the team that launched the successful NASCAR careers of many active, popular Cup drivers. Christopher Bell, John Hunter Nemechek, William Byron, Bubba Wallace, and Todd Gilliland are just some examples of the success that his equipment brought. But it is still an expected feat; after all, NASCAR drivers are known for their racing decisions and team-building skills.

The real beauty of his investments and playful experiences starts when we look at some of the other companies and names from his portfolio. Busch had his own energy drink company, Rowdy Energy, as a healthy alternative for himself and his fans.

At its launch, the company introduced ten flavors available online, including seven sugar-free, Keto-certified options. And Rowdy wasn’t joking when he said he wanted it to be healthier. The drink had 60 percent less sugar compared to its competitors. That’s one impressive feat in an industry where the likes of Monster and Red Bull absolutely steamroll the competition.

During its brief four-year tenure, Rowdy Energy made an impact across the motorsports landscape. The brand partnered with drivers and racing series alike, supporting events and racing careers. Some notable names associated with it include Formula DRIFT driver Ken Gushi, Five Flags Speedway, sprint car racing organizations, and Rico Abreu.

When someone’s career is star-studded with so many unique trophies, it is bound to leave a lasting legacy behind. And, as the world learned of Kyle Busch’s untimely passing on May 21 because of a “severe illness,” people from different walks of life couldn’t help but share their condolences and words of appreciation for who Kyle Busch was.

People from cross-professions react to Kyle Busch’s death

“I’m saddened to hear about the passing of my friend, 2-time NASCAR champion Kyle Busch. Gone Way Too Soon! Rest in Peace, Kyle,” Ric Flair’s latest post read on his social media.

In 2019, Busch won the WWE 24/7 Championship title in a major upset against R-Truth, marking himself as the most dedicated fan of WWE. Additionally, he was also given a WWE title belt to hold when he won at Texas Motor Speedway on November 7, 2009.

Former Washington Redskins NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III said, “Prayers up for family, friends, and loved ones of Kyle Busch, who has passed away at 41 years old.”

The founder of Redneck Riviera Whisky was among the first ones who offered their condolences and was shocked at his demise: “So sad to hear that Kyle Busch just passed away. My goodness…only 41 years old.”

Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, penned, “What the hell? Awful, out-of-nowhere news. RIP Rowdy.”

The MLB team, Cincinnati Reds, was among the teams from other major sports series to dedicate a heartfelt note to Kyle Busch: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of NASCAR legend Kyle Busch. We were fortunate to spend time with him at our complex in Arizona. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, fans, and the entire racing community.”

Similarly, the Denver Broncos were full of love for Busch, who was known as a major Broncos fan.

American country singer Blake Shelton was also among the people who knew Busch and was distressed by his passing away suddenly.

“Man, I am so shocked and sad to hear about Kyle Busch’s passing away. First met him when he was 20 years old. What a legend. Prayers to his family,” the 49-year-old remarked.

“I am saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Kyle Busch. He was a friend here on X. Condolences to his family,” Canadian actor William Shatner said.

“This is shocking. I’m so, so sorry to hear this,” Sage Steele, the host of The Sage Steele Show, couldn’t stop herself from speaking up about Busch and his family.

New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson also joined in to offer prayers for Busch. Fellow driver and IndyCar star Scott McLaughlin said, “Incredibly sad. My thoughts are with his entire family. A true wheelman and one of the best to ever do it.”

Speaking about his participation and the fans’ eagerness to watch him race the Charlotte 600, former nuclear scientist Matt Van Swol mused, “This is absolutely heartbreaking… He was supposed to be racing in here in North Carolina this week. 41 is way too young; praying for his family, and especially his two little kids. Horrible.”

Businessman Marcus Lemonis was among those who were close to Busch, as he wrote, “Heartbroken about my friend and business partner Kyle Busch passing. A wonderful man, father, son, and husband. I will miss you, Rowdy.”

It feels rather awkward and heartbreaking to think that the one ‘villain’ of NASCAR and a constant source of entertainment during the races won’t be racing at Charlotte this Sunday. The footprints Busch has left behind are undeniably permanent, and there is no doubt that the current and next generations of NASCAR will greatly benefit from and build on them.