GCW confirmed the sad news via a Twitter statement on Monday.
GCW mourns Markus Crane’s passing with sadness. Markus Crane was a performer who embodied GCW’s spirit. Markus was both an underdog, and an outlaw. He was fearless and determined in the ring, and he won against all odds.
He was a key player in GCW’s early successes and was part the heart and soul our roster since day one. Markus was passionate about Deathmatch Wrestling and GCW.
The independent wrestling company said, “We were proud that he represented GCW at Korakuen Hall during the inaugural show in Japan.”
GCW said: “In 2019, Markus suffered from a traumatic brain injury which nearly cost him his life. We were all amazed (but inspired) by his miraculous recovery and tireless efforts to return the ring to him.
Markus recently returned home to his family and made a promise to live a healthier lifestyle.
He had achieved a number of milestones during his sobriety, which he was proud of and that made us all look forward to his future. Markus was a good friend and was loyal.
He was always smiling or bringing a smile to our faces. We were all fortunate to have him as our friend. Markus, Rest in Peace. We will be missing you.”
Crane was a Japanese deathmatch wrestler who performed frequently in Japan. He worked dates for Big Japan as well as FREEDOMS.
His most memorable GCW match was in the 2018 Nick Gage Invitational finals where he fought Gage and Japanese deathmatch legends Isami Kodaka, and Masashi Takeda.
Crane was diagnosed with a brain infection in December 2019.
To allow the treatment to proceed, a portion of his skull was taken out.
It is not clear, however, if his brain infection was a contributing factor to his death.
WRESTLING THE WORLD MOURNS CRANE’S DEATH
AAW Pro Wrestling released a statement regarding the death of the former champion, saying that they were “saddened” to hear about the passing of Markus Crane, former AAW Tag Team Champion. We send our condolences to his family during this difficult time.
WWE star Cora Jade tweeted: “Damn. The short life is precious. Rest in Peace Markus Crane
All Elite Wrestling star Serpentico paid tribute to his friend by tweeting: “Markus Crane is such a sweetheart of an individual. Rest in power, friend.
