Pac's death highlights labor issues facing professional wrestlers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 10:30 AM
Last updated Oct 2, 2026

The professional wrestling community mourns the loss of Pac, who died on September 27 at the age of 40. His passing underscores the precarious nature of gig work in wrestling, where independent contractors face a lack of health benefits and job security. The sport, rooted in a carnival-like tradition, sees wrestlers perform under intense physical demands, often leading to premature health issues. Pac, known for his tenure in WWE and AEW, had recently participated in a match shortly before his death. The situation reflects broader concerns about the industry's treatment of its performers.
- •Pac died on September 27 in Illinois after his recent match.
- •He was known for his roles in WWE and AEW wrestling promotions.
- •Wrestlers often face job insecurity as independent contractors.
- •The sport lacks pensions and retiree health benefits for performers.
- •The wrestling industry has a documented history of premature deaths among its athletes.
- 10:30 AMYahoo Sports — AEW wrestler Pac’s death exposes pro wrestling’s labor problem
"Pro wrestling turns the precarity of American gig workers into a glorious spectacle
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