AEW has now publicly reacted to the death of Andy Williams. The company where Williams wrestled as The Butcher issued a tribute on September 6 after his death was confirmed following the medical emergency he suffered during an Enjoy Wrestling show.
All Elite Wrestling said it was “saddened” to learn of Williams’ passing and pointed to both sides of the life he built — as a professional wrestler and as a musician with Every Time I Die and Atomic Rule.
“All Elite Wrestling is saddened to learn of the passing of Andy Williams, aka The Butcher. A trailblazing musician with ETID and Atomic Rule, 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.”
AEW also posted a black-and-white memorial graphic for Williams reading, “In Memory of Andy Williams ‘The Butcher’ 1977 – 2026.” The statement comes after Williams collapsed at the end of his match during Enjoy Wrestling’s Five Years event at Mr. Smalls Theatre in Millvale, Pennsylvania. Medical personnel immediately performed CPR before he was transported to the hospital, and the remainder of the show was canceled.
There was hours of confusion afterward when Enjoy Wrestling initially denied claims that Williams had died before later deleting that denial. TMZ then confirmed Williams’ death through the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, bringing an end to the conflicting information surrounding his condition.
Williams became a familiar face in AEW as one-half of The Butcher and The Blade, but his career stretched far beyond the ring. His years in heavy music made him instantly recognizable before he ever stepped into AEW, and the company made sure that part of his legacy was front and center in its tribute.
AEW’s message makes it clear Williams left an impression far beyond wins and losses. He went from tearing up stages with a guitar to throwing people around a wrestling ring, and he earned respect in both worlds before his life was cut tragically short at 48.
What is your favorite memory of Andy Williams during his run as The Butcher in AEW? Leave your thoughts and tributes in the comments.
