The dual life of a metalcore guitarist who became a professional wrestling powerhouse
In short: Andrew Williams lived two distinct, high-intensity lives simultaneously. As the rhythm guitarist for metalcore band Every Time I Die, he helped define a genre for over two decades. Simultaneously, he carved out a formidable career as a professional wrestler, known as The Butcher, dominating rings across North America until 2026.
Born in 1977, Williams initially pursued wrestling training in Ontario, Canada, but a knee injury sidelined his progress. During this recovery, he picked up the guitar, eventually co-founding Every Time I Die in 1998. He remained a constant presence in the band, appearing on every release and maintaining a perfect live performance record until 2020. Even as his musical career flourished, his interest in the ring never faded. By the mid-2010s, he resumed wrestling training, eventually making his mark on the independent circuit with high-impact moves like powerbombing opponents through tables.
In 2019, Williams debuted in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as The Butcher, forming a long-standing tag team with The Blade. His wrestling career was marked by physical resilience; he competed through injuries, including a torn meniscus and a torn biceps. Following the 2022 breakup of Every Time I Die, Williams transitioned to professional wrestling full-time. His tenure in AEW lasted nearly seven years, during which he became a fixture in tag team feuds and battle royals. In 2023, he also began competing regularly for Ring of Honor, often taking on singles matches after his tag team partner was sidelined by injury.
Williams' life ended unexpectedly in September 2026 at age 48, following a match in Millvale, Pennsylvania. His passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from the music and wrestling worlds, including a memorial show by AEW and a dedicated performance by My Chemical Romance. Beyond his professional achievements, he was remembered by bandmates for his inclusive spirit. His legacy is marked by his rare ability to bridge two demanding subcultures, leaving behind a career that spanned from the stages of metalcore tours to the main events of professional wrestling.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Andy Williams (guitarist)
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