Wrestling fans were left in mourning this week upon learning that longtime wrestler Jamin Pugh, better known by his ring name Jay Briscoe, had passed away.
According to the Washington Examiner, the 38-year-old athlete was killed in a car accident in Delaware late Tuesday afternoon.
Daughter left in critical condition
Briscoe’s daughter was in the vehicle with her father as they traveled back from a cheerleading competition and was reportedly left in critical condition.
Briscoe and his younger brother Mark Briscoe both worked for the professional wrestling promotion Ring of Honor, which was purchased by All Elite Wrestling last year.
All Elite Wrestling owner and CEO Tony Khan released a statement in which he said the company would “do whatever we can to support his family.”
Sadly, Jamin Pugh has passed away. Known to fans as Jay Briscoe, he was a star in ROH for over 20 years, from the first show until today.
Jay and his brother Mark dominated ROH, reigning as champions to this day. We’ll do whatever we can to support his family.
Rest In Peace Jamin— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) January 18, 2023
Colleagues share fond memories of Briscoe
Tributes to Briscoe quickly appeared on social media, with professional wrestling legend Matt Hardy tweeting that “was honored” to have worked with his fallen colleague.
Heard this tragic news while flying. I’m DEVASTATED that Jay Briscoe (Jamin Pugh) tragically died today. I was honored to work with him many times. I loved Jay. Jay was SO real. Jay loved his wife & kids more than anything & we shared that bond. I’m heartbroken for his family. pic.twitter.com/c2Jki7dEp0
— MATT HARDY (@MATTHARDYBRAND) January 18, 2023
Veteran wrestler and WWE executive Triple H spoke up as well, saying that Briscoe “created a deep connection with wrestling fans across the globe.”
An incredible performer who created a deep connection with wrestling fans across the globe. My condolences to the family and friends of Jay Briscoe.
— Triple H (@TripleH) January 18, 2023
WWE star Ettore “Big E” Ewen recalled how he and others “certainly studied & ‘borrowed’ from the Briscoe Brothers,” adding that they “left an indelible mark on tag team wrestling.”
We certainly studied & “borrowed” from the Briscoe Brothers. They have left an indelible mark on tag team wrestling. I was blown away by the trilogy with FTR. My deepest condolences to Jay Briscoe’s loved ones.
— Ettore “Big E” Ewen (@WWEBigE) January 18, 2023
Meanwhile, the wrestling themed Public Enemies Podcast released a video of Briscoe with his daughter, calling him “an amazing father.”
Before he was anything else Jay Briscoe was an amazing father. pic.twitter.com/k9IesMCo8E
— Public Enemies Podcast (@TheEnemiesPE3) January 18, 2023