WWE Superstars Honor Pac in 40-Minute Video as Cause of Death Remains Under Investigation

Key points

• WWE published a nearly 40-minute tribute video on its YouTube channel on October 7, featuring statements from Kevin Owens, Becky Lynch, Cody Rhodes, Bayley, Sami Zayn, Big Cass, The Lucha Bros, Tyson Kidd, William Regal, Finn Balor, and Corey Graves.
• Cody Rhodes revealed in an interview that Kevin Owens organized the video by setting up a camera during recent TV tapings for wrestlers to share their memories of Satterley.
• Satterley, who died at age 40 on September 27, was found unresponsive in a rental car in the parking lot of a Cava restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois, near O'Hare International Airport.
• Police reports indicate that medication was found in his backpack and saliva was on his shirt, but no suspicious markings or injuries were noted. His phone showed Google Maps routing him to O'Hare Airport.
• The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office stated that the cause and manner of death are pending additional testing, which could take several weeks.
• Satterley had competed in AEW's All Out event on September 26, losing to Andrade El Idolo, before his death the following day.

Background

Benjamin Satterley, known as Pac in AEW and Neville in WWE, was a prominent figure in professional wrestling, holding titles such as the WWE Cruiserweight Championship and the AEW National Championship. His sudden death at age 40 on September 27, 2026, prompted tributes from both WWE and AEW, including a dedicated episode of AEW Dynamite on September 30. The cause of his death remains under investigation, with police reports detailing the discovery of his body in a rental car in Des Plaines, Illinois.

How outlets are covering it

Cageside Seats and Sports Illustrated emphasize the emotional impact of the WWE tribute video, highlighting the coordination by Kevin Owens and the participation of various Superstars. The New York Post and USA Today focus on the police investigation, detailing the discovery of medication and saliva at the scene and the pending cause of death. All sources agree on the timeline of Satterley's death and the tributes from both WWE and AEW, but differ in their emphasis on the video versus the investigation.

Why it matters

The tribute video underscores the deep respect and affection Satterley had among his peers in professional wrestling, while the ongoing investigation highlights the unresolved nature of his sudden death. The video serves as a collective remembrance, and the investigation aims to provide clarity on the circumstances of his passing.

What to watch

The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office will continue testing to determine the cause and manner of Satterley's death. WWE and AEW may release further tributes or updates as the investigation progresses. The wrestling community is expected to continue honoring Satterley's legacy in upcoming events.