Wrestler Jimmy Rave dies aged 39 – just months after having both legs amputated

12/13/2021

American wrestler Jimmy Rave has died aged 39, following a harrowing battle with ill-health

Rave, who was forced to retire in November 2020, worked for the likes of Ring of Honor, IMPACT, New Japan Pro Wrestling, Dragon Gate and Combat Zone Wrestling.

The news comes less than two months after Rave confirmed both of his legs had been amputated after contracting MRSA.

The American – real name James Guffey – had previously lost his left arm, which had forced him to quit the sport, and shortly after contracted Covid too.

A social media statement confirming the news was released on Twitter by Rave's daughter Kailah, and friend Bill Behrens, saying "James Michael Guffey has died at the age of 39.

"James was best known as Professional Wrestler, Jimmy Rave. His career, which started in 1999, continued for over two decades."

The statement added: "Outside of wrestling he held the position of Director of the Bartow County, Georgia Peer Support, Wellness and Respite Centre for several years.

"Jimmy had been struggling with drug addiction for many years. His struggles resulted in the amputation of his arm, and, later, both of his legs.

"James is survived by his ex-wife Felicia, daughter Kailah, son James II, and parents Jim and Toni Guffey."

A cause of death has yet to be revealed.

In October, Rave had taken to social media to announce he had undergone a double leg amputation.

"Apparently it's time for me to come clean”, he tweeted.

"This past June I began having trouble walking and went to my surgeon.

"He determined I had MRSA in both legs and they needed to be amputated immediately. Promoters can tell you along with my peers, I've had a history with this and would cancel shows often due to this condition.

"I don't know where rumours started this was due to something else."

Rave also revealed at the time that he was struggling with the severe costs of his medical bills, and pleaded for financial help from fans.

News of his death prompted a flurry of tributes, with @davidpick1987 saying: "Bill, I’m so sorry for your loss and everyone close to him.

"I only encountered Jimmy a couple of times in my youth but he was a lovely man and I could never have foreseen the route he’d go. I interacted with him a couple of times recently on here and I’m gutted. RIP Jimmy."

@EuphoricAngel91 added: "Rest In Peace Jimmy Rave I loved seeing you in CZW and TNA. A great talent."

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