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PWInsider.com is saddened to report the passing of Kevin Nikel, who performed in the ring as Ivan Warsaw and Knuckles Madsen, following a shooting incident in Rogers, Arkansas. Knikel was only 41 years old.
Local news reports indicate Nikel was shot just after midnight on Friday 7/11. Authorities found Nikel, who was transported to the hospital with a wound to his abdomen, but he later passed away. The shooting is being investigated as a homicide.
Working under the name Knuckles Madsen, Nikel was under a WWE developmental deal in 2012. He appeared regularly on WWE NXT live events but only made a few appearances on television. He exited NXT in December 2013 and wrestled in Arkansas, Texas and Memphis through 2024, including headlining TCW events against Jerry Lawler.
Nikel was interviewed earlier this year by podcast Developmentally Speaking, which covers the journeys of former WWE developmental talents:
Texas' Dogg Pound Championship Wrestling issued the following:
“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.
PWInsider.com sends our deepest condolences to the family, friends and fans of Kevin Nikel.
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