AEW recently shared the heartbreaking news of the passing of Benjamin Satterley, better known to wrestling fans as PAC. He was only 41 years old. On Wednesday night, AEW’s Dynamite event at Pittsburgh’s Petersen Events Center was dedicated to him, featuring a ten-bell salute and concluding with a video tribute highlighting his career.
During a live appearance on Grilling JR following the show, Jim Ross described the week as emotionally challenging but commended AEW for the respectful homage. “It’s been an emotional week, to say the least. AEW did an outstanding job honoring PAC, who was one of my all-time favorites. Whenever I saw him, I’d call him ‘Lad,’ and he’d always respond with a warm handshake and a big smile,” Ross shared.
Ross also highlighted how much PAC will be missed, emphasizing the wrestler’s exemplary professionalism and positive attitude in the locker room. “He was an incredible teammate and set a strong example for how pro wrestlers should carry themselves—always genuine, not blurring the lines between reality and performance. That’s why you saw such heartfelt emotion tonight from everyone,” Ross explained.
He praised Mike Mansury and AEW’s production team for their hard work in quickly assembling the tribute show on short notice. “Given how challenging the past few days must have been for AEW’s crew, including Mansury and his team, it’s remarkable they gathered all the footage and photos needed for Wednesday night’s show. Hats off to them,” Ross remarked.
Ross also commended the Pittsburgh audience for their respectful and timely reactions throughout the event. “The crowd’s response helped make the tribute truly special, especially considering the difficult circumstances and the loss of PAC,” he added.
The commentary team, including Tony Schiavone and Excalibur, also earned Ross’s praise for their thoughtful and professional delivery. “They did an excellent job staying in their lane and contributing meaningfully. I’m very proud of their work,” he said.
Reflecting on PAC’s impact, Ross noted that if he ran a wrestling promotion, he would have done everything possible to bring PAC on board. “PAC was invaluable in the locker room. Today’s social media world can be tough, but PAC was always positive, always smiling, always supportive. He admired my work growing up in England, and he was simply perfect,” Ross recalled.
“In terms of wrestling skill, PAC was one of the best I’ve ever seen. He had zero fear and understood that fans paid good money to witness his performances—he made sure they got every bit of that,” Ross said.
He concluded by saying he watched the entire tribute without once leaving his seat, showing how deeply he was moved. “I didn’t even get up for a drink—I didn’t want to miss a single moment,” he shared.
In closing, Ross reflected on his long career and the privilege of crossing paths with talents like PAC. “I’m grateful for my journey and the opportunities I’ve had. Meeting someone like PAC made it all that much more meaningful,” he said.
Fan Take:
This tribute underscores PAC’s lasting influence on the wrestling world, not just as a performer but as a cherished teammate and role model. For fighting fans, it’s a poignant reminder of the human side of the sport and could inspire promotions to place even greater emphasis on camaraderie and character beyond the ring.
Source: wrestlingnews.co
