Pro wrestling champ dies at age 30 after incident during event

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The world of independent pro wrestling was rocked by another tragedy over the weekend.

While competing at a show for Ohio-based Xtreme Valley Wrestling on Friday night, Artist Artest (real name Graham Michael) collapsed, prompting an immediate stoppage of the show.

According to reports, Artest was rushed to a nearby hospital following the incident, but despite the efforts of the venue staff and medical professionals, he died.

He was 30 years old, having celebrated his birthday earlier this month.

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XVW issued an official statement on Facebook that evening, sharing the news.

“It is with great sadness that I have the duty to inform the fans of XVW that after collapsing tonight at XVW and being rushed to the hospital, Artist Artest has passed away.

“We wish to send our condolences to his family, friends, and fans. Our staff worked tirelessly to keep him alive until the medics arrived. We will pause activities in remembrance of the life of Artest.

“Rest in peace champ.”

The company later posted its gratitude for the outpouring of support following the tragedy.

“Beneath the surface, XVW Xtreme Valley Wrestling is not just a pro wrestling company made up of independent contractors, staff, and volunteers — we are a family forged by our shared passion for wrestling and fueled by the unwavering support of our fans.

“We are all reeling from the loss of a big hearted, talented young wrestler, whose untimely passing has left a gaping void in our lives, but we take comfort in knowing that we are part of a larger community that is also grieving.

“From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for the overwhelming outpouring of prayers and condolences. As we struggle to come to terms with our loss, we will find strength in our collective bond and pay tribute to our fallen brother, Artist Artest, in the days ahead.

“Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated as we work to finalize plans for upcoming events.”

Former WWE wrestler Sami Callihan, who trained Artest alongside Ace Austin, shared his condolences in a post on X.

“Beyond devastated & emotionally spent,” Callihan wrote. “Last night one of our students collapsed in the ring at an indy show, and passed away unexpectedly.

“Graham was one of the most genuine, and kind hearted people around.

“Tell your friends and family how much you love them. RIP.”

Austin also commented on his former student’s death.

“Can’t believe one of my boys is gone,” he wrote. “Always respectful, always loving and always willing to give the task ahead his best try.

“I’ve had the honor of training a great group of guys alongside Sami over the last few years; losing one so soon and so suddenly is a tragedy I can’t understand. RIP.”

Artest’s death comes less than a week after another independent wrestling star died following an incident in the ring.

Vince Steele, known as “The Jurassic Juggernaut,” suffered a medical emergency during a match on March 16.

According to reports, Steele was participating in a four-way match at a Brii Combination Wrestling (BCW) event in Ridgefield Park, N.J., when the 39-year-old grappler suffered a “cardiac event.”

“During yesterday’s event, Vince suffered a medical emergency in the ring. We want to express our deepest gratitude to the Ridgefield Park Police Department, who were on the scene within minutes and immediately provided emergency medical assistance,” BCW wrote in a post on X on March 17. “Despite their rapid response and the best efforts of first responders, we tragically lost Vince.

“This is an unimaginable loss, and we ask for patience and respect as we process this tragedy. We will share more details in the coming days on how we plan to honor Vince’s incredible legacy.

“Rest easy Jurassic Juggernaut.”