Tributes have flowed from across the wrestling world for a 33-year-old fighter who died on Monday after a horror injury.
Game Changer Wrestling star Markus Crane has died at age 33, years after suffering a traumatic brain injury.
The wrestler’s sad passing was confirmed by GCW in a statement on Twitter on Monday.
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“With sadness, GCW mourns the loss of Markus Crane. As a performer, Markus embodied the spirit of GCW. He was an underdog and an outlaw. He was fearless in the ring and determined to succeed against the odds.
“He played a major role in GCW’s early success and was part of the heart and soul of our roster from day one. Markus was passionate about GCW and Deathmatch Wrestling.
“We were proud to have him represent GCW at Korakuen Hall during our inaugural show in Japan,” the independent wrestling company added.
GCW added: “In 2019, Markus suffered a traumatic brain injury that nearly took his life. We were all inspired (but surprised) as he made a miraculous recovery and worked tirelessly to make his eventual return to the ring.
“Most recently, Markus returned home to his family with a commitment to focusing his energy towards a healthier lifestyle.
“He had celebrated a series of milestones in his sobriety in which he was proud to show off and left us all excited for his future. As a friend, Markus was caring and loyal.
“He was quick to smile, or bring a smile to your face. We were all lucky to know him. Rest in Peace, Markus. We will miss you.”
Crane was a deathmatch wrestler that performed regularly in Japan, where he worked dates for Big Japan and FREEDOMS.
His most famous GCW matches came in the 2018 Nick Gage Invitational finals, where he wrestled Gage and Japanese deathmatch legends Isami Kodaka and Masashi Takeda.
In December 2019, doctors discovered that Crane had an infection eroding his skull and leaking into his brain.
A portion of his skull was removed to allow the treatment to work.
Nonetheless, it is unclear whether his brain infection contributed to his death.
AAW Pro Wrestling issued a statement in regards to the former champion’s passing, saying: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of former AAW Tag Team Champion, Markus Crane. Our condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
WWE star Cora Jade tweeted: “Damn. Life is short. Rest In Peace Markus Crane.”
All Elite Wrestling star Serpentico paid homage to his friend, tweeting: “Markus Crane was a such sweetheart of a person. Rest in power, friend.”
This story first appeared in The Sun and was republished with permission.