Wrestling star dies aged 40, one day after last match

All Elite Wrestling has announced the sudden passing of PAC – real name Benjamin Satterley – at the age of 40.

The high-flying British superstar, who competed across the globe including with WWE under the name Adrian Neville, worked his final match on Sunday (AEST).

PAC was one of AEW’s original stars and regarded as one of the best modern-day in-ring talents in professional wrestling.

“A native of Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Satterley began his wrestling career in 2004 and went on to perform for wrestling organisations all over the world, captivating fans with innovative high-flying moves and incredible in-ring ability,” the AEW statement on Monday morning (AEST) said.

“PAC signed with All Elite Wrestling in 2019 and held multiple AEW championships and competed in some of the most memorable matches in AEW history.

“Our condolences go out to Satterley’s family, friends and fans.”

The final match of PAC’s career came against Andrade El Idolo at the All Out pay-per-view in front of a sold-out Chicago crowd.

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PAC was one of the American promotion’s inaugural signings in 2019, joining the Tony Khan-led organisation after departing WWE.

During his time with WWE, Satterley held both the NXT and cruiserweight titles.

Under the AEW umbrella, he held the International and Trios championships.

Tributes began to flow on social media after the shocking news broke.

“Heartbroken. In utter disbelief. One of my biggest inspirations in this business and I was lucky enough to get to know him a bit and work alongside him… always mesmerised by getting to watch him work,” wrestler KJ Orso said via X.

WWE star Danhausen described him as “one of the kindest, most welcoming people in the locker room” while Paige [fka Saraya] shared a heartfelt tribute.

“F--k man, this is terrible,” she wrote on X.

“Everyone that knew Ben would tell you what an incredible human he was. Truly one of the best. This is heartbreaking. Sending so much love to his family and everyone else who was lucky enough to know him personally and to all who got to watch him perform and witness the greatness that was that man.

“Rest in power Ben.”

A host of AEW wrestlers posted heartbroken and crying emojis on social media as the devastating and sudden news filtered through.