Jimmy Rave, the 39-year-old former TNA and ROH star, passed away yesterday after battling health issues for a long time. The announcement of his death was done by his agent Bill Behrens.
Real name James Michael Duffey, Rave struggled with drug addiction for multiple years and eventually that led to both his legs and one of his arms needed to be amputated due to an MRSA infection.
Rave started his wrestling career in 2000 and in 2003 he was signed with Ring of Honor, becoming a member of The Embassy. Four years later he was scooped up by TNA Wrestling and formed The Rock ‘n Rave Infection stable with Christy Hemme and Lance Archer. He only lasted two years in TNA and was released in 2009 along with Archer.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of James Guffey, otherwise known as Jimmy Rave,” Impact Wrestling said in a statement. “We offer our sincere condolences to his family & friends during this difficult time. Rave made his IMPACT debut in 2002 during The Asylum Years & became a mainstay of the X-Division.”
Throughout his carer, Rave also wrestled for NJPW, Dragon Gate, NWA, CZW, and other independent promotions.
He is survived by ex-wife, son and daughter, and parents.
A GoFundMe campaign has been setup by his daughter to cover the $20,000 in expenses for his memorial. You can help donate at GoFundMe.com.
