Indie Wrestler Dies at Unsanctioned Event in His First Match

A 25-year-old man from Oklahoma City has died this week following his involvement in an unsanctioned wrestling match.

William Ogletree was a comedian, singer and just beginning to pursue a career in professional wrestling, with this being his first match. Ogletree took a Spinebuster according to his uncle, leading to him being injured. We highly suggest you watch the video WWE released a while back on 22 of the most insane Spinebusters in the history of the company.

22 spinebusters that’ll give you whiplash: WWE Fury

According to Joe Miller, the administrator of the Oklahoma State Athletic Commission, the event wasn’t licensed by the commission despite a state requirement that all wrestling based events need approval before they begin operating in any fashion. Miller has since identified the promoter as Leslie Hesley of Balthazar’s Ladies of Wrestling (B.LO.W.). who has yet to comment on the incident.

As mentioned, Ogletree was known by the community as a stand-up comedian and guitarist for a local rock band. Fox 25 News has a video on their website featuring his friends reminiscing about his passions. You can watch the video here.

The family said that Ogletree showed no sign of brain activity after the injury sustained at the wrestling event, which took place at a venue known as The Blue Note. His family ultimately decided it was best to remove him from life support in order to grant his final wish, which was to be an organ donor.

An investigation into the wrestling match that caused the injury is reportedly ongoing by the Oklahoma State Athletic Commission. The commission has said it will request a criminal investigation by the Oklahoma County District Attorny’s office.

Since his death, a GoFundMe has been set up and has currently raised $5,000 of a $15,000 goal. This is a memorial fund. You can donate here if you so wish to.

Wrestling Rumors would like to expend our deepest sympathies with the family and the community around the Oklahoma area during this time. We hope that justice is served and that William can rest in peace.

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