Former NXT Wrestler Kevin Nikel (aka Knuckles Madsen) Shot Dead

Former NXT Wrestler Kevin Nikel (aka Knuckles Madsen) Shot Dead – Former WWE NXT talent Kevin Nikel, who competed under the ring names Knuckles Madsen and Ivan Warsaw, has tragically passed away at the age of 41. According to official reports, Nikel was fatally shot in Rogers, Arkansas.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident to the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette, stating that deputies responded to a call regarding a shooting and discovered Nikel suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen. He was rushed to a local hospital but later died from his injuries. As of now, authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances of the shooting or any potential suspects involved.

Nikel was part of WWE’s developmental system from 2012 to 2013, where he worked primarily in NXT during its earlier years. Wrestling as Knuckles Madsen, he shared the ring with names like Kassius Ohno (Chris Hero) and Mojo Rawley. While his WWE run was brief, he continued to make appearances on the independent circuit for various promotions, including NWA Texas and Dog Pound Wrestling, often under the name Ivan Warsaw.

Several of those independent promotions issued statements honoring his legacy following news of his passing. In a joint tribute, NWA Texas wrote:

“NWA Texas is saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Nikel, professionally known as Ivan Warsaw & Knuckles Madsen. His contributions to Professional Wrestling will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time. Rest in Peace.”

Throughout his wrestling career, Nikel was known for his rugged in-ring style and old-school persona. While he never reached main roster status in WWE, he earned the respect of his peers and left a lasting impression on fans and talent alike on the indie scene.

Kevin Nikel’s death marks yet another tragic loss for the professional wrestling community, and tributes have begun to pour in across social media from those who worked alongside him or admired his work.

As the investigation into the shooting continues, authorities have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made or if a motive has been established. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office.

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Un post condiviso da DoggPoundChampionshipWrestling (@dpchampionshipwrestling)

Former NXT Wrestler Kevin Nikel (aka Knuckles Madsen) Shot Dead