In a year already packed with surprises, few stories have captivated audiences across both the wrestling and political spectrum like the meteoric rise of Tyrus—from the bright lights of WWE to the hallowed halls of American patriotism. In August 2025, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Foundation (FLEOF) named Tyrus, formerly known in the ring as Brodus Clay, as its 2024 Patriot of the Year—a distinction that has sent shockwaves through fan communities and sparked a nationwide conversation about reinvention, resilience, and the true meaning of service.

A Surprising Honor for an Unlikely Patriot

When fans think of Tyrus, images of his flamboyant WWE persona, Brodus Clay, often spring to mind: wild ring dances, infectious charisma, and a larger-than-life presence that made him a household name. But the man behind the persona has spent recent years carving out a new legacy, far beyond the squared circle.

On August 18, Tyrus took to social media to share the news of his award, writing with heartfelt gratitude:
“Truly humbled tonight to receive the 2024 Patriot of the Year award by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Foundation. The Foundation is the charitable sister organization to the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association and provides immediate support to the families of our fallen heroes, as well as our heroes who are injured in the line of duty… The true heroes are the men and women who serve and protect this great nation. I humbly and honorably accepted this great award!”

The announcement was met with an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues alike, many of whom praised Tyrus for his outspoken advocacy for law enforcement and first responders. For Tyrus, the recognition was not just a personal milestone—it was a testament to a journey marked by transformation, perseverance, and a deep commitment to public service.

A Second Act on Fox News

Tyrus’ journey didn’t end with wrestling. After hanging up his boots following a grueling Bullrope Match for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship in August 2023, Tyrus transitioned into a new chapter as a commentator and co-host on Fox News’ Gutfeld!—one of the most-watched late-night shows in cable television.

Known for his unapologetic candor, dry wit, and unwavering patriotism, Tyrus quickly became a staple voice in political and cultural discussions. His insights, often delivered with a sharp blend of humor and hard-earned wisdom, resonated with millions of viewers across the country. Whether dissecting the day’s headlines or offering irreverent takes on modern culture, Tyrus brought a grounded authenticity that drew in audiences who remembered his wrestling days but were equally captivated by his current persona.

As a regular on Gutfeld!, Tyrus sits alongside host Greg Gutfeld and a rotating panel of media personalities, political pundits, and comedians. His ability to bridge the gap between entertainment and serious commentary has made him a fan favorite, with many viewers crediting him for making political discourse more accessible and relatable.

A Personal Battle: The Fight for Health

Behind the scenes, Tyrus has faced battles that transcended the ring and the newsroom. Following his final wrestling match, he confronted a harsh reality: years of physical punishment and unhealthy habits had taken a toll on his health. In candid interviews with outlets like Muscle & Fitness, Tyrus opened up about his struggle with weight, mobility, and the emotional challenges that came with reinventing himself.

“Before, if I was having a bad day, I’d grab a Snickers, or a sandwich—or twenty,” he admitted. “But as I got older, and more confident in myself, I was able to control that more. That was something I always struggled with. The energy you take to cover up your B.S.—if you just faced it in the mirror, it would be so much better for you.”

Determined to reclaim his health, Tyrus embarked on a months-long journey that required discipline, introspection, and sheer willpower. The results were dramatic: significant weight loss, improved mobility, and eventually, the symbolic moment when he discarded the cane he had come to rely on.

“I could not wait to see how far I could chuck that thing down my yard, because I was done with it,” he said with pride.

The Meaning Behind the Award

For Tyrus, the Patriot of the Year Award is more than just a recognition of his public support for law enforcement. It’s an acknowledgment of his ongoing commitment to perseverance, discipline, and transformation—a narrative that has inspired countless fans who see in his journey a reflection of their own struggles and triumphs.

His connection to FLEOF runs deep. As someone who has long championed first responders and military personnel both on air and off, Tyrus has used his platform to advocate for those who serve and protect. The Foundation’s mission—to provide immediate support to families of fallen and injured officers—aligns closely with Tyrus’ own values of sacrifice, honor, and resilience.

Fan Reactions: From Skepticism to Celebration

The announcement of Tyrus’ award was met with passionate reactions across social media. Wrestling fans and cable news viewers alike flooded Twitter and Instagram with congratulatory messages, calling the honor “well-deserved,” “powerful,” and “a moment of real recognition.”

Many commented on the stark contrast between Tyrus’ past and present, marveling at the arc of a man who went from body-slamming opponents in the ring to body-slamming political ideologies on national television. Others noted that his story was a testament to the power of reinvention and the importance of living one’s beliefs authentically.

Of course, the moment was not without its skeptics. Some critics questioned the politicization of entertainment figures, while others took aim at Tyrus’ controversial views. But for every naysayer, there were hundreds who rallied behind him—not just for what he believes, but for the authenticity with which he lives those beliefs.

What’s Next for Tyrus?

With this milestone behind him, the future seems wide open for Tyrus. While he’s ruled out returning to the wrestling ring, he hasn’t ruled out expanding his presence in political commentary, public speaking, or charitable advocacy. Many insiders speculate that this award might mark the beginning of a deeper involvement with organizations that support veterans, police officers, and first responders.

And of course, his seat at the Gutfeld! table remains secure. As long as Fox News continues to dominate the late-night ratings game, Tyrus’ voice will remain a fixture in the national conversation.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy Still in Motion

From WWE’s spotlight to the Fox News desk, Tyrus has worn many hats. But this latest honor proves that perhaps the most impactful role he’s taken on is that of an example—a man willing to confront his struggles, transform himself, and stand tall for the values he believes in.

For those who thought his journey ended in the ring, the message is clear: Tyrus is just getting started.

If you want to see how this larger-than-life personality continues to reshape the worlds of entertainment, news, and public service, make sure to check out the full story and catch his powerful acceptance speech. You won’t want to miss what comes next.