The Rock Mourns Pac's Sudden Death, Vowing Wrestling Community Remains United

Key points

• Benjamin Satterley, known as Pac in AEW and Neville in WWE, died at age 40 on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
• Satterley was found dead in a rental car in Des Plaines, Illinois, about 4 p.m. on Sunday, one day after his final match at AEW's All Out event in Hoffman Estates.
• Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, a board member of TKO (WWE's parent company), posted an emotional video tribute on Instagram, addressing the Satterley family, AEW owner Tony Khan, and the locker room.
• The Rock stated that despite the global reach of professional wrestling, the community remains a 'tight-knit unit' bound by shared passion, and that losing a young, talented member 'really f---ing hurts.'
• AEW announced a tribute special on 'Dynamite' on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, while WWE posted a tribute graphic before 'Monday Night Raw.'
• Satterley, a native of Newcastle upon Tyne, England, had a career spanning WWE, AEW, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and other promotions, holding multiple championships including the AEW All-Atlantic and International titles.

Background

Satterley's death follows the recent passing of AEW wrestler Andy Williams (The Butcher) at age 48, highlighting a period of tragic losses in professional wrestling. Satterley had been with AEW since 2019 and was celebrated for his high-flying style and innovative moves, earning nicknames like 'King of the Cruiserweights' and 'The Man That Gravity Forgot.'

How outlets are covering it

OutKick emphasized The Rock's emotional tribute and his role as a board member of TKO, highlighting the personal connection between the wrestling community. CNN focused on Satterley's career achievements, including his 147 matches in AEW with 94 wins, and tributes from peers like Nick Wayne and Will Ospreay. AEW's official statement confirmed the death and announced the tribute special, while the Daily Herald provided local details, noting Satterley was found alone in a rental car with no signs of foul play. All sources agreed on the timing and location of the death but differed in emphasis: OutKick on The Rock's reaction, CNN on career stats, and the Daily Herald on local investigation details.

Why it matters

Satterley's death at 40, just one day after a major match, underscores the physical risks and emotional toll of professional wrestling. The Rock's tribute and the unified response from AEW and WWE highlight the close-knit nature of the industry, while the pending autopsy results may raise questions about athlete health and safety protocols. The loss of a high-profile, multi-championship winner impacts the roster and fanbase of both AEW and WWE, with tribute events planned to honor his legacy.

What to watch

The Cook County medical examiner's office will release autopsy results in the coming weeks to determine the cause and manner of death. AEW's tribute special on 'Dynamite' on September 30, 2026, will feature tributes from wrestlers and possibly family members. WWE and AEW may continue to honor Satterley in future events, and the wrestling community will likely monitor athlete health and safety measures in light of recent losses.