Tributes to Andy Williams began to pour in on Sunday from across the professional wrestling world following the death of the former AEW wrestler and rock guitarist at 48.
Williams, known in wrestling as The Butcher, passed away after suffering a medical emergency at an Enjoy Wrestling event in Pennsylvania on Saturday.
AEW issued a statement Sunday remembering Williams as a musician who successfully moved into professional wrestling and became highly regarded by those with whom he worked.
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.
The company extended its condolences to Williams’ family, friends and fans.
The Young Bucks, who shared the ring with The Butcher & The Blade numerous times during AEW’s early years, wrote simply, “Love you Andy.”
Will Ospreay posted a photograph accompanied by the single word “Butcher,” while Swerve Strickland shared a photo and wrote, “R.I.P. Andy.”
Taz remembered Williams as a creative and talented figure in both music and wrestling, but focused particularly on the person behind his imposing appearance. He wrote that the many descriptions of Williams as a good person and “gentle soul” were true.
Matt Hardy, who worked extensively with Williams during their time together in AEW, said he was “saddened & shocked” by the news.
Andy was a joy to work with – He was a kind, funny & deep individual who was an extremely talented musician & wrestler.
Hardy offered his thoughts and prayers to Williams’ family, friends and fans.
Kyle Fletcher shared a lengthy memory of a backstage conversation with Williams about separating self-worth from professional success. Fletcher said they discussed the importance of having a life outside their careers, Williams’ love for his fiancée and finding self-love.
“I aspire to be as cool as Andy Williams,” Fletcher wrote. “May he live forever in our minds and hearts.”
Willow Nightingale recalled Williams advocating for her during AEW’s pandemic-era shows in Jacksonville, when she had yet to become a full-time member of the roster. She credited him with encouraging her and making AEW feel like a family before she officially joined the company.
Josh Alexander called Williams “one of the best people I ever met” and remembered leaving their conversations feeling better than when they began.
I’ll remember Andy for what he was. A dude with an enormous heart that could always put a smile on my face.
William Regal said he had enjoyed talking with Williams about music and old wrestling, describing him as “a lovely man.”
Frankie Kazarian said he and Williams had initially bonded through music before becoming close through wrestling.
“I am just sick with devastation,” Kazarian wrote. “A better dude, you won’t find.”
AEW’s Will Washington shared an example of the crossover between Williams’ two careers. Washington recalled meeting fans who had discovered AEW through Williams after first following him as Every Time I Die listeners.
When Washington later told Williams about the encounter, he said Williams was surprised but deeply appreciative. Washington described him as someone with a fearsome outward appearance who was, in reality, “such a gentle, kind soul.”
WWE Champion CM Punk also paid tribute through an Instagram Story, sharing a photograph of himself with Williams at Disneyland in California.
Others posting tributes or condolences included Adam Pearce, Corey Graves, Jade Cargill, Lio Rush, Christopher Daniels, Athena, Amazing Red, RJ City, Sammy Guevara, Saraya, Anthony Bowens, Matthew Rehwoldt, Amanda Huber, Bryce Remsburg, Bear Bronson, Brandon Cutler, Vincent and QT Marshall.
Many more remembrances are sure to follow in the hours and days ahead.
