Andy Williams, 'The Butcher' and Every Time I Die guitarist, dies at 48

Key points

• Andy Williams died at 48 after collapsing during a match at an Enjoy Wrestling event in Millvale, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.
• On-site medical staff administered CPR before an ambulance transported him to a hospital, where he died.
• Williams was the founding rhythm guitarist for Every Time I Die from 1998 until the band disbanded in 2022.
• In wrestling, he performed as 'The Butcher' in a tag team with Jesse 'The Blade' Guilmette, debuting for All Elite Wrestling in 2019.
• His contract with AEW and its sister promotion Ring of Honor expired in June 2026.
• Just hours before his collapse, Williams posted a video announcing new music and upcoming tours with his new band, Atomic Rule.

Background

Williams grew up in the Buffalo, New York area, and began his wrestling career in the independent circuits around 2014 before signing with AEW. He was known for his hard-hitting style and burly physique, contrasting with his soft-spoken demeanor in music. He had previously worked with promotions including TNA and ROH. His death follows a series of earlier reports from our archive confirming the collapse and subsequent passing, with no cause of death initially released by authorities.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and Rolling Stone both emphasize Williams' dual legacy as a musician and wrestler, noting his role in Every Time I Die and his AEW tenure. Rolling Stone specifically cites the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office via TMZ, confirming the death but noting no cause was immediately known. AEW issued a formal statement mourning him as a 'trailblazing musician' and respected peer. KCRA focused on the medical emergency aspect, confirming the location as Mr. Small's Theater. Tributes from figures like Matt Hardy and Willow Nightingale highlighted his character, describing him as kind and supportive despite his intimidating wrestling persona. No outlets reported conflicting facts regarding the circumstances of his death or his career timeline.

Why it matters

Williams' death marks the loss of a notable figure who successfully bridged two distinct entertainment industries. His passing has prompted widespread mourning across both the metal music and professional wrestling communities, highlighting the interconnectedness of these subcultures. The incident also raises questions about the health and safety of performers in independent wrestling events, where medical response is critical but resources may be limited compared to major promotions.

What to watch

The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office is expected to release the official cause of death. Atomic Rule, Williams' new band, had planned tours with Gwar in November and December; it is unclear if these will proceed. The wrestling community may hold memorial events or tributes in the coming weeks. No immediate legal or regulatory actions have been reported regarding the event's safety protocols.