Andy Williams, best known to wrestling fans as The Butcher, was taken to hospital after collapsing during an independent event in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The frightening incident happened after Williams competed in a tag team match for Enjoy Wrestling. According to Fightful, medical staff performed chest compressions and used a defibrillator before he was transported from the venue by ambulance.

Enjoy Wrestling cancelled the remainder of the show and later issued an update on social media.

“Andy collapsed at the end of his match this evening,” the promotion said. “Our doctors on staff tended to him immediately, administering CPR until the ambulance arrived. We sent everyone home and are at the hospital now waiting for more information. Thanks to everyone who helped and has reached out.”

Fans at the event said the match had appeared to be progressing normally before Williams’ legs suddenly buckled. His longtime tag team partner, The Blade, immediately called for assistance and attempted to help him stand.

Williams reportedly collapsed for a second time and lost consciousness before medical staff took over.

The 48-year-old previously competed for AEW between November 2019 and 2024. He formed a popular tag team with The Blade and also aligned with The Bunny during their time with the company.

Williams and The Blade returned to the independent wrestling scene after their AEW contracts expired.

Away from wrestling, Williams is also an accomplished musician and was previously a guitarist with the band Every Time I Die.

Everyone at WNS sends their thoughts and best wishes to Andy Williams, his family, friends and those who were at the event.

UPDATE:

Reports claiming that AEW star Andy “The Butcher” Williams has died are not true, according to Enjoy Wrestling.

Williams reportedly suffered a medical emergency during an independent wrestling event, prompting concern across the wrestling community.

However, Enjoy Wrestling, the promotion he was appearing for, quickly responded to a post claiming that Williams had passed away.

“It’s not true. Delete this.”

Andy collapsed at the end of his match this evening.

Our doctors on staff tended to him immediately, administering CPR until the ambulance arrived.

We sent everyone home and are at the hospital now waiting for more information.

Thanks to everyone who helped and has reached out https://t.co/A2rnCnOOgR

, Enjoy Wrestling (@EnjoyWrestle) September 6, 2026