Andy 'The Butcher' Williams, Every Time I Die Guitarist and Pro Wrestler, Dies at 48 After In-Ring Collapse

Key points

• Andy Williams died at 48 after collapsing during a match at Mr. Smalls Theater in Millvale, Pennsylvania, on September 6, 2026.
• Medical staff at the event administered CPR before he was transported to a hospital, where he died; the medical examiner is determining the cause of death.
• Williams was the rhythm guitarist for the metalcore band Every Time I Die from its inception in 1998 until its disbandment in 2022.
• In professional wrestling, he performed as 'The Butcher' and teamed with 'The Blade' (Pepper Parks) in promotions including AEW, Ring of Honor, and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling.
• Just hours before his collapse, Williams posted a video announcing new music and upcoming tour dates with his new band, Atomic Rule.
• WWE star Cody Rhodes recalled recruiting Williams for a debut match in AEW, describing him as intelligent and artistic despite his intimidating ring persona.

Background

Andy Williams had a long-standing career in both heavy metal music and professional wrestling. He was a founding member of Every Time I Die, a band signed to Epitaph Records in 2008, which disbanded in 2022. He began training as a wrestler in the early 2010s, making his first full match in 2015 at age 37. He subsequently debuted on AEW television in 2019, with his contract expiring in 2026. In 2025, he released a demo EP with his new band, Atomic Rule. Prior to his death, he had announced plans to tour with the band Gwar in November and December 2026.

How outlets are covering it

WTAE reported the immediate news of Williams' death and the ongoing medical examiner investigation. NBC News provided extensive background on his musical career, noting his dyslexia and his transition from a factory-worker trajectory to music and wrestling. Fox News highlighted the reaction from WWE star Cody Rhodes, who recalled recruiting Williams for a specific AEW debut and emphasized his intelligence and kindness. All outlets agreed on the basic facts of the collapse and death but emphasized different aspects of his legacy: NBC focused on his musical contributions, Fox on his wrestling interactions with major stars, and WTAE on the local event details.

Why it matters

The death of Andy Williams marks the loss of a prominent figure in both the heavy metal and professional wrestling communities. His dual career demonstrated a unique crossover between music and sports entertainment, influencing fans in both sectors. His passing has prompted widespread tributes from major figures in both industries, highlighting his impact and the interconnected nature of these entertainment fields.

What to watch

The medical examiner is expected to release the cause of death in the coming days. The wrestling and music communities are expected to continue paying tribute, and Atomic Rule may address the impact of his loss on their upcoming tour plans.