AEW honored the life and legacy of late Atomic Rule guitarist and former Every Time I Die guitarist Andy Williams during tonight’s (September 09th) episode of ‘Dynamite’.
Williams, who was also known to wrestling fans as “The Butcher,” tragically passed away at 48-years-old after suffering a medical emergency while wrestling at an independent event this past weekend.
Williams began pursuing his professional wrestling dream in his mid-30s, eventually joining AEW and spending several years with the company as The Butcher.
An in-memoriam graphic honoring Williams was shown at the beginning of tonight’s broadcast before announcers Excalibur, Taz, and Tony Schiavone took time to remember the musician and wrestler.
Excalibur became visibly emotional while discussing Williams and the person behind his imposing wrestling persona.
“The old adage, ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ perfectly suited Andy Williams. On the surface, he seemed like a hulking, violent brute, but one interaction, one conversation with him would reveal that he was anything but.”
He continued:
“Andy was the most thoughtful, creative, warm, supportive person you could ever wish for. He saw the potential in everyone around him, and would encourage you to achieve more.”
Excalibur also reflected on Williams’ ability to use his influence to support others rather than himself.
“He was somebody who, deservedly, could have a massive ego, but instead he used his energy to boost those around him and make the world a better place. We are worse off without Andy but we are significantly better off for having him in our lives.”
He ultimately closed his tribute with a particularly poignant reference to Williams’ musical legacy:
“Though it may haunt us. And break our hearts. Death will not tear us apart.”
The line comes from Every Time I Die’s “Fear And Trembling,” the opening track from the band’s 2016 album ‘Low Teens’.
Tonight’s Dynamite was already serving as a tribute to Rebel, who is currently battling terminal ALS. AEW has announced that this Saturday’s (September 12th) episode of ‘Collision’ will serve as a proper tribute to Williams.
Williams’ death came after he suffered a medical emergency following a tag team match at an Enjoy Wrestling event in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this past weekend.
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