AEW had barely announced that PAC had died at 40 when wrestlers began posting their reactions. Within minutes of the promotion sharing the news about Benjamin Satterley, stars from AEW and across wrestling responded with messages of shock, heartbreak and tributes to the man they knew as PAC.
AEW announced Satterley’s passing Sunday night, remembering the Newcastle upon Tyne native for a career that began in 2004 and took him around the world. The company said he captivated fans with his high-flying moves and in-ring ability, and offered condolences to his family, friends and fans. Swerve Strickland was among the first to react. The AEW star, who shared the announcement, kept his response brief as the news appeared to leave him struggling for words.
“I cant man….”
Matt Hardy posted a longer tribute, saying he was stunned by the news and sending support to Satterley’s loved ones. Hardy also ended his message with a personal farewell.
“Shocked & stunned about the sudden death of Pac. My thoughts & prayers go out to his family, friends and fans. RIP brother”
Abadon and Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. each posted a broken-heart emoji in response to AEW’s announcement. Their brief reactions added to the wave of grief from wrestlers who were processing the news publicly. CJ Perry also said she was in shock. The former WWE star and wrestling personality shared a short message that captured the disbelief many expressed in the immediate aftermath of AEW’s post.
“I’m in complete shock”
Hurricane Helms sent his condolences to Satterley’s loved ones and the AEW roster. Helms called the news heartbreaking and included prayer and heart emojis with his message.
“Absolutely heartbreaking. My heart goes out to his family, friends and all of AEW. 🙏🏻✝️❤️”
Parker Boudreaux shared a brief tribute and a reminder to appreciate life. His post included a broken-heart emoji alongside a farewell to PAC.
“RIP PAC 💔 everyday is a blessing”
Emily Jaye, another wrestling personality, said she was struggling to find words after learning of Satterley’s death. Her message focused on the heartbreak of the news.
“truly at a loss of words. this is heartbreaking”
Joe Gacy shared a simple tribute, writing that he had no words and adding PAC’s name with a heart emoji. The understated post joined the many quick reactions from wrestlers who were still absorbing AEW’s announcement.
“No words”
“Pac ❤️”
The tributes come after a career that carried Satterley from the British independent scene to major promotions around the world. He competed in Japan for Dragon Gate and wrestled in the United States for promotions including Pro Wrestling Guerrilla and Chikara before WWE signed him in 2012.
WWE fans knew him as Adrian Neville, where he won the NXT Tag Team Championship with Oliver Grey and later captured the NXT Championship. He also became WWE Cruiserweight Champion before returning to the PAC name and joining AEW in 2019.
In AEW, PAC became the inaugural All-Atlantic Champion, a title later renamed the International Championship. He also won the World Trios Championship with Death Triangle partners Penta El Zero Miedo and Rey Fénix, and competed in major matches against stars including Kenny Omega.
The cause of Satterley’s death has not been revealed at this time. Ringside News will continue following the story and share updates as more information becomes available.
PAC’s sudden death has left wrestlers and fans remembering a career that spanned more than two decades and crossed the globe.
PAC’s sudden death has left wrestlers and fans remembering a career that spanned more than two decades and crossed the globe. Which PAC match or moment stands out most to you? Share your memories and feedback in the comments.
