Wrestler Dies After In-Ring Collapse in Ohio

Independent professional wrestler Artist Artest, whose real name was Graham Michael, died Friday night after collapsing during a match for Xtreme Valley Wrestling (XVW) in Fairborn, Ohio. He was transported to a nearby hospital but did not survive, the promotion announced.

“It is with great sadness that I have the duty to inform the fans of XVW that after collapsing tonight at XVW, and being rushed to the hospital… Artist Artest has passed away,” XVW said in a statement. “We wish to send our condolences to his family, friends, and fans. Our staff worked tirelessly to keep him alive until the medics arrived. We will pause activities in remembrance of the life of Artest. Rest in peace champ.”

Michael was the reigning XVW Next Gen Champion and trained under professional wrestlers Ace Austin and Sami Callihan. Both shared tributes on social media following the announcement of his death.

“Can’t believe one of my boys is gone,” Austin wrote. “Always respectful, always loving and always willing to give the task ahead his best try.”

Callihan described Michael as “one of the most genuine, and kind-hearted people around.”

“Beyond devastated & emotionally spent,” Callihan wrote. “Last night one of our students collapsed in the ring at an indy show, and passed away unexpectedly.”

Michael had been active on the independent wrestling scene and held a title in XVW at the time of his death.

Sources: POST Wrestling, Wrestling Inc.