The wrestling world is in shock. Benjamin Satterley, the star fans knew as pac, has died at the age of 40. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) confirmed the news late on Sunday, US time. He had wrestled on the company’s biggest show just a day earlier.
For South African fans who followed his high flying style for years, this is a hard day. Here is a simple look at what we know so far.
What AEW Said
AEW shared the news on social media. The company said it was “saddened” by the passing of Satterley. It described him as a native of Newcastle upon Tyne, England, who began wrestling in 2004 and performed for promotions around the world.
The statement praised his innovative moves and his incredible in ring ability. It also said he signed with AEW in 2019, held multiple championships and took part in some of the most memorable matches in the company’s history. AEW sent its condolences to his family, friends and fans.
No cause of death has been announced. Several outlets report that AEW gave no details. Until his family or the company says more, it is best not to guess.
His Last Match
The man known as pac wrestled on Saturday at AEW’s All Out pay per view, held at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, near Chicago. He challenged Andrade El Idolo for the AEW National Championship.
He lost the title match. Even so, reports say he gave a strong performance of close to 20 minutes, full of the moves fans loved. His death was confirmed the following day.
A Career That Began at 16
Satterley started wrestling at just 16, on the independent circuit in England. He climbed steadily and made his New Japan Pro Wrestling debut in 2012. Later that year he signed with WWE.
In WWE he wrestled as Adrian Neville, often shortened to Neville. He quickly became one of the most exciting names in the company. Fans loved his fast, aerial style. His signature finish was a corkscrew shooting star press from the top rope. It earned him the nickname “The Man That Gravity Forgot.” He was also called the “King of the Cruiserweights.”
His WWE record includes:
- One run as NXT Champion
- Two runs as NXT Tag Team Champion
- Two runs as Cruiserweight Champion
He left WWE in 2018.
Life in AEW as pac
Satterley joined AEW in 2019 and was one of its first big signings. He wrestled at the very first All Out event that year and beat Kenny Omega. In AEW he used the name pac and picked up the nickname “The Bastard.”
He had rivalries with “Hangman” Adam Page and Kenny Omega. He was also part of Death Triangle with Penta and Rey Fenix. That group took part in a famous best of seven trios title series against The Elite. Later he joined the Death Riders.
Here is an easy summary of his main career moments.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2004 | Started wrestling in England |
| 2012 | Made his New Japan Pro Wrestling debut and signed with WWE |
| 2018 | Left WWE |
| 2019 | Signed with AEW and won at the first All Out |
| 2026 | Wrestled at All Out on Saturday, died aged 40 |
In AEW he was a two time World Trios Champion and the very first All Atlantic Champion.
Where the Name pac Came From
The story behind the name is light hearted. Speaking to Chris Jericho on the “Talk Is Jericho” podcast, Satterley said he had a six pack as a child. He would play fight with his dad, who would ask him to show his abs. That became a “silly nickname.”
When he began training, he had to choose a ring name and could not think of another. He said it was only meant to be temporary, but it stuck. The name pac stayed with him for his whole career.
Tributes From Fans and Fellow Wrestlers
Tributes have poured in from across the sport. Tony Khan, AEW President, called Satterley a beloved husband and friend. Khan also praised his wrestling knowledge, skill, athleticism and professionalism.
Nick Wayne, the youngest champion in AEW history, wrote on X that he always valued his conversations with Satterley. He called pac one of the greatest innovators and professional wrestlers to ever do it.
Will Ospreay, an English wrestler who faced Satterley many times, said he was the greatest export from their country. He added that he was also the greatest human being.
Matt Hardy wrote that he was shocked and stunned by the sudden news and sent his thoughts to the family.
The warmth of these messages says a lot. People respected him for how he treated others as much as for what he did in the ring.
A Second Loss for AEW in Weeks
This is a painful time for the company. A few weeks ago, AEW wrestler Andy Williams, known as The Butcher, died at 48. According to AEW, he collapsed at an independent match in Pennsylvania. These are separate events, and no link between them has been reported.
Why This Hits Fans So Hard
Wrestling has a loyal following in South Africa. Many fans watched Satterley grow from his NXT days to his years in AEW. He took risks that looked almost impossible, yet he made them look easy.
Many will also remember that he was still performing at a high level. Wrestling for close to 20 minutes on Saturday night and being gone the next day is a real shock for anyone who watched.
What Happens Next
AEW has said little beyond its first statement. Fans who want the latest word can follow the company’s official channels, including its website at allelitewrestling.com.
For now, the facts are simple:
- Benjamin Satterley, known as pac, died aged 40
- AEW announced it on Sunday night, US time
- He had wrestled at All Out the night before
- No cause of death has been shared
Remembering pac
Satterley spent more than two decades in wrestling. He started as a teenager in England and became a champion in more than one promotion. He leaves behind a legacy of daring moves, big matches and a name for kindness.
The best way to remember pac is simple. Watch his old matches, share your favourite moments and keep his family in your thoughts.
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