Former All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star Andy Williams, 48, known in the ring as The Butcher, has died after collapsing during the main event of a wrestling show. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed Williams passed away on September 5 following health complications at Mr. Small's Theatre in Millvale, Pennsylvania, according to TMZ.
Medical personnel at the event performed CPR and deployed a defibrillator on Williams after he collapsed. He was then rushed to Allegheny General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The cause of death has not been publicly released by the medical examiner's office.
Collapse During Main Event
Witnesses reported that during the Saturday night show, Williams' legs buckled and he fell to the floor. His tag team partner, The Blade, called for assistance and attempted to help Williams up, but Williams lost consciousness after falling again.
Eyewitness Rich Fann described the scene: "It was towards the end of the match. He seemed to be in a bit of dire straits, they went to a finish, and he was a little wobbly. Andy then went down, and Blade helped him up a bit and then tried to get folks to help. Once they saw, both the crew, the paramedics, and the crowd worked in unison. Cleared a path, paid attention to the calls on the mic, and then got him chest compressions, ice, and then the AED. Then they boarded and got him out of there."
Medical Response and Official Statement
Enjoy Wrestling, the promotion hosting the event, issued a statement following Williams' collapse. The statement read: "Andy collapsed at the end of his match this evening. Our doctors on staff tended to him immediately, administering CPR until the ambulance arrived. We sent everyone home and are at the hospital now waiting for more information. Thanks to everyone who helped and has reached out."
After news of Williams' death emerged, the company added a brief tribute: "Butcher Forever."
Wrestling and Music Legacy
Williams was known for his work in AEW and Ring of Honor, where he competed as The Butcher. Beyond wrestling, he co-founded the hardcore band Every Time I Die, serving as their founding guitarist. He played with the band until they disbanded in 2021 after their final show.
Heartbroken fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts and prayers. The wrestling community has expressed condolences, with tributes highlighting his contributions to both professional wrestling and music.
