Pac, AEW Star and High-Flying Innovator, Dies at 40 One Day After All Out Match

Key points

• Benjamin Satterley, known as Pac, died at age 40, according to AEW.
• He competed in the opening match of AEW's All Out pay-per-view in Chicago on Saturday, September 26, 2026, challenging Andrade El Idolo for the AEW National Championship.
• Satterley was a two-time AEW World Trios Champion and the inaugural AEW All-Atlantic Champion.
• In WWE, he was known as Adrian Neville and held the NXT Championship, NXT Tag Team Championship, and Cruiserweight Championship twice.
• The cause of death has not been disclosed, and authorities in Chicago and Cook County have not provided details.
• Satterley began his wrestling career in 2004 and performed globally, including in New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre.

Background

Satterley was a prominent figure in professional wrestling, known for his high-flying style and innovative moves. He joined AEW in 2019, becoming one of the first wrestlers to sign with the promotion. His career spanned multiple major organizations, and he was recognized for his in-ring ability and charisma. The archive notes that his death was announced shortly after his appearance at All Out, with no immediate cause provided.

How outlets are covering it

OutKick and NBC News both confirmed Satterley's death and highlighted his recent match at All Out. NBC News provided additional background on his early career, including his time at a courier factory and his decision to pursue wrestling full-time. Bleacher Report emphasized his championship achievements in both AEW and WWE. AEW's official statement focused on his contributions to the promotion and expressed condolences to his family. No outlet reported a cause of death, and all noted the lack of information regarding the circumstances of his passing.

Why it matters

Satterley's death is a significant loss to the professional wrestling community, given his status as a multi-champion and respected performer. His passing has prompted tributes from fellow wrestlers, including Will Ospreay and Marina Shafir, highlighting his impact on the industry and his personal connections with peers. The lack of information about the cause of death has raised concerns and calls for transparency from authorities.

What to watch

Authorities in Chicago and Cook County are expected to provide more details on the circumstances of Satterley's death. AEW and other wrestling organizations may hold memorial events or tributes in his honor. Fans and colleagues are expected to continue sharing memories and tributes on social media.