Officials have determined that wrestling star Benjamin Satterley, known to fans as All Elite Wrestling (AEW)'s "Pac," died from bronchial asthma, the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed Friday, October 16. The manner of death was ruled natural.
The English-born wrestler was found unconscious in a rental car outside a CAVA restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois, around 4:00 p.m. on September 27, just a day after competing at AEW's "All Out" event at NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates. First responders reported no suspicious injuries, though they noted medication in his vehicle and a Google Maps route to O'Hare Airport displayed on his phone.
The discovery of the athlete in such a public space has left the local community and the global wrestling fraternity in a state of mourning. Satterley, a Newcastle upon Tyne native, began his professional wrestling journey in 2004.
He quickly gained a reputation for his incredible agility and high-flying maneuvers, which set him apart from his contemporaries in the independent circuit. He signed with AEW in 2019, becoming the inaugural AEW International Champion and a two-time AEW World Trios Champion.
His technical prowess and charisma made him a cornerstone of the promotion's roster during its formative years. He previously performed in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) as Adrian Neville, earning nicknames like "The Man That Gravity Forgot" for his high-flying style.
His tenure in WWE saw him capture multiple championships, solidifying his status as a global superstar. His death shocked fans who had watched him wrestle the night before.
The sudden loss of such a physically fit athlete has sparked discussions regarding the management of chronic conditions like asthma among professional performers. AEW also paid tribute on Facebook: "The very best of us.
Truly one of a kind. We love you and we miss you, Ben.
We always will." The organization has promised to honor his legacy in upcoming broadcasts. Fans have left flowers and personal mementos outside the Des Plaines restaurant where he was found.
The outpouring of grief highlights the deep connection he maintained with his audience throughout his two-decade career. As investigations conclude, the wrestling world continues to remember Satterley not just for his titles, but for the dedication he showed to his craft until his final moments.