16 hours ago
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Professional wrestler Andy 'The Butcher' Williams has tragically died at the age of 48 after collapsing during a wrestling match on Friday night.
Williams, best known for his run in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), was competing in a tag-team contest, alongside longtime partner Jesse 'The Blade' Guilmette, for Pittsburgh-based promotion 'Enjoy Wrestling' when the terrifying ordeal unfolded.
According to a 911 dispatch call obtained by TMZ, Williams was injured during the bout after 'hitting his head' on a ring post and collapsing shortly after.
The promotion said at the time: '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.'
However, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office later confirmed to TMZ that Williams had died on Saturday night, despite their best efforts.
Professional wrestler Andy 'The Butcher' Williams, right, has tragically died at the age of 48 after collapsing during a wrestling match on Friday night
Williams, pictured with his fitness coach girlfriend, hit his head on a ring post before collapsing
Beyond his wrestling career, Williams was celebrated as an accomplished musician, serving as the guitarist for heavy metal band Every Time I Die until their split in 2022
One witness described the frantic scene, noting that Williams '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.'
Promoters canceled the remainder of the live event following the medical emergency.
The Pittsburgh promotion later paid tribute to the beloved star on Sunday morning, simply posting: 'Butcher Forever.'
Meanwhile, AEW released a statement shortly after. It read: 'All Elite Wrestling is saddened to learn of the passing of Andy Williams, aka The Butcher.
'A trailblazing musician, Williams made a successful transition into the world of professional wrestling and was incredibly respected by his peers both in and out of the ring. Our condolences go out to Williams' family, friends and fans.'
Beyond his wrestling career, Williams was celebrated as an accomplished musician, serving as the guitarist for heavy metal band Every Time I Die until their split in 2022.
Officials have not yet determined an official cause of death. The Daily Mail has reached out to the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office for comment.
