Published September 07, 2026
Andy Williams, Every Time I Die guitarist and a professional wrestler, has passed away at the age of 48.
The former All Elite Wrestling (AEW) wrestler known as “The Butcher” breathed his last on Saturday night, September 5.
The American musician was pronounced dead just hours after he was collapsed following an independent tag-team wrestling match at Mr. Small’s Theatre in Millvale, Pennsylvania.
The exact cause of his death has not yet been revealed.
Before beginning his professional wrestling career, Williams was the founding rhythm guitarist of New York metalcore band. He played with the group from its formation in 1998 until its breakup, appearing on all nine of the band’s studio albums.
Every Time I Die announced its breakup in early 2022, following the release of its ninth and final studio album, 2021’s Radical.
After Every Time I Die broke up, Williams joined Atomic Rule and continued making music while pursuing his wrestling career.
Williams began wrestling professionally in the 2010s while still performing with the band. He joined AEW in 2019 as “The Butcher” and remained under contract with the promotion until June 2026.
“All Elite Wrestling is saddened to learn of the passing of Andy Williams, aka The Butcher,” the wrestling company wrote on Instagram. “A trailblazing musician with ETID and Atomic Rule, Williams made a successful transition into the world of professional wrestling and was incredibly respected by his peers both in and out of the ring. Our condolences go out to Williams’ family, friends and fans.”