September 9 was an emotional taping of AEW's flagship show Dynamite. Not only was it the Rebel Heart show -- a show benefitting ALS research in honor of Tanea "Rebel" Brooks -- but it was the first episode of Dynamite since the passing of Andy Williams.
Williams was best known as guitarist for Buffalo-based metalcore band Every Time I Die, but he also transformed himself into one of the company's most intimidating wrestlers as the Butcher, often teaming with the Blade in a punishing tag team. He passed away September 5, more than seven years after first joining the company.
Williams was a universally liked figure in an industry often dominated by divisive figures. On Wednesday, announcers Tony Schiavone, Excalibur and Taz told the world as much in a heartfelt tribute.
"There was nobody quite like Andy," began Excalibur -- an understatement, given his talent, bushy mustache, monocle and massive, tattooed body."Andy was a friend to all of us. He was a great musician and he was a great human being," continued Schiavone. "He is certainly going to be missed. "
"Just loved everywhere," added Taz. "I mean, from great musicians to great pro wrestlers, not just here in AEW. Andy was Big Butch, as I called him. He was just the man. He just made you feel great every time you talked to him. "
Williams was 48 years old.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: