British professional wrestler dies aged just 26 as tributes pour in for star

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Kurtis Chapman has died aged 26 (Image: Revolution Pro)
Kurtis Chapman has died aged 26 (Image: Revolution Pro)

Professional wrester Kurtis Chapman has died at the age of 26.

Revolution Pro, a British wrestling promotion, confirmed the tragic news on Friday morning. A statement read: "We, at Revolution Pro Wrestling are absolutely heartbroken to report the loss of our dear friend Kurtis Chapman.

"We watched Kurtis grow from a child to a young man who loved professional wrestling and continued to excel in all aspects of his life. One of the most gifted technical wrestlers, charismatic characters and magnetic personalities. He will never be forgotten."

Chapman, known as 'Mad Kurt' inside the ring, was born in Portsmouth and started in professional wrestling as a teenager in 2014. He was known for his light-hearted style, making him a popular figure within the British wrestling community.

Tributes have poured in for Chapman since the sad news broke. "We're so sorry to hear this," wrote promotion Riot Cabaret Pro Wrestling on X. "Thinking of you all today and sending our deepest condolences to everyone who knew him."

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Wrestling fans have described their "shock" at the Portsmouth star's passing. One wrote on X: "Just... can't believe this. RIP to someone who seemed to always be having the most fun he could at every opportunity. He's going to be incredibly missed!"

Another fan added: "That's awful news, (he) was a really fun wrestler to watch and always looked like he was doing something he loved. My condolences to all his family and friends."

Other fans described Chapman's passing as "horrible" and a "massive loss to the UK scene". Another wrestling supporter wrote on X: "Only saw him wrestle once in a tag match, but it was memorable. He spent the entire match interacting with the crowd and making sure everyone had a good time. RIP Mad Kurt."

British professional wrestler dies aged just 26 as tributes pour in for starChapman (right) was one of British wrestling's most loved stars (Revolution Pro)

Professional wrestlers have also paid tribute to Chapman. 'Big Wavy' Roy Johnson wrote on X: "Awful news. Kurtis was such a character and so fun to be around. RIP."

Overseas fans have offered their condolences to Champman's loved ones. One wrote on X: "I caught only small glimpses of this young man's brilliance from my couch here in America and I'm gutted. Much love to his family, friends and all those who know him."

ATTACK! Pro Wrestling, another British company who Chapman worked with, published a touching tribute on X. A picture of Mad Kurt was captioned: "Rest in peace, Kurtis."

One fan recalled a brilliant story about one of Chapman's great performances. He wrote on X: "This is terrible news. Kurt was a big part of why I fell in love with ATTACK! Pro Wrestling and the British Indys. A character second to none. He had me in pieces running around York Hall ducking Eddie Kingston all night. A wonderful performer."

Tom Blow

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