The news has broken that Benjamin Satterley, better known as PAC, has died at age 40. AEW confirmed his passing late last night, just one day after his must-see clash with Andrade El Idolo at All Out in Chicago. The circumstances surrounding PAC's death have not been disclosed.
Born in Newcastle upon Tyne, he began wrestling professionally in 2004 and quickly became one of the biggest stars on Britain's independent scene. His incredible athleticism earned him the nickname "The Man That Gravity Forgot."
His reputation eventually took him around the world, with notable runs in Dragon Gate and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla before WWE came calling in 2012. As Adrian Neville, PAC became one of NXT's standout stars, winning the NXT Championship and producing a series of memorable matches. He later captured the WWE Cruiserweight Championship twice before leaving the company in 2018.
PAC later became one of AEW's most important early signings. Making his AEW debut in 2019, he became the inaugural All-Atlantic Champion, and captured the AEW World Trios Championship twice alongside Penta El Zero Miedo and Rey Fenix as part of Death Triangle. He'd go on headline shows against stars like Kenny Omega, Jon Moxley, Orange Cassidy, and Will Ospreay.
"All Elite Wrestling is saddened to announce the passing of Benjamin Satterley, aka Pac," the company wrote on social media. "A native of Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Satterley began his wrestling career in 2004 and went on to perform for wrestling organizations all over the world, captivating fans with innovative high-flying moves and incredible in-ring ability."
AEW added, "Pac signed with All Elite Wrestling in 2019 and held multiple AEW Championships and competed in some of the most memorable matches in AEW history. Our condolences go out to Satterley’s family, friends and fans."
At just 40, PAC leaves behind a remarkable legacy spanning Britain, Japan, WWE and AEW. He helped inspire a generation of British wrestlers and showed audiences around the world what was possible when extraordinary athleticism was combined with genuine wrestling ability.
Our thoughts go out to his friends and family at this difficult time.