The wrestling world is mourning the loss of ECW Original Paul Bykow, better known to fans as The Equalizer.
Independent wrestler Tony Chini confirmed Bykow’s passing in a post on X. Details surrounding his death have not been made public at this time.
Chini revealed that he had seen Bykow just one week earlier and reflected on going from watching him as a fan to becoming his friend and sharing the ring with him.
“Heartbroken. I just saw Paul a week ago. It was an honor to grow up watching him, become his friend, and even share the ring with him. Rest in peace, The Equalizer.”
Bykow competed during the original ECW era and remained connected to the independent wrestling community after his time with the promotion. Chini’s tribute included several photos of the two together, including moments from wrestling events and inside the ring.
The Equalizer’s passing has left those who knew him remembering both the wrestler they watched and the friend they came to know away from the spotlight.
What are your memories of The Equalizer and his time in ECW? Leave your condolences and feedback in the comments.
