Tributes have flowed for Australian wrestling trailblazer Kristen “Miami” Mitchell, who died at the age of just 36.
Mitchell paved a path for women wrestlers in both South Australia and Victoria, and competed and mentored women who have gone on to become some of the biggest names in world wrestling.
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One of the women she competed against was current SmackDown Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley, who paid tribute to Mitchell.
“Thank you for the memories … rest peacefully,” Ripley wrote on her Instagram Stories.
The news which has sent shockwaves through the Australian wrestling community was broken by Wrestle Radio Australia, who released a statement.
“Australian Wrestling is saddened by the loss of Kristen Mitchell aka Miami.
“The impression she has left on the industry both from her work in the ring and behind the scenes on the future of the business is immeasurable and she will be missed deeply by all of those who ever had
“She will be deeply missed by all of those who ever had the privilege of knowing and working with her.
“Her kind heart and bubbly positive attitude are how we will all remember her and the world is a less brighter place today because of this loss.
“Our condolences go out to all of her family and friends during this time.
“RIP Kirsten and thank you for being you.”
Mitchell was a competitor for Adelaide’s Riot City before moving to Melbourne and working for Melbourne City Wrestling.
It is where she competed against the likes of WWE stars in Ripley, KC Cassidy, Shazza McKenzie and Toni Storm.
Melbourne City Wrestling remembered Mitchell as a “fierce, formidable and fearless” competitor who taught up and coming female wrestlers all she knew.
“Behind the scenes, Kristen’s contributions were irreplaceable,” they said in a statement.
“Leading the MCW Academy wearing many hats, a trainer, a mentor, she encouraged the next generation of talent to never give up and to follow their dreams.
“Our business, the entire Australian wrestling community, have lost a friend, a mentor, an irreplaceable person with an infectious smile, never ever giving up – it’s a beautiful day to go after your dreams.”
Adrenaline Pro Wrestling tweeted: “We at Adrenaline Pro Wrestling are saddened to hear the passing of Kristen ‘Miami’ Mitchell.
“We want to send our condolences to Kristen’s family, friends and everyone she has touched in our industry during this difficult time.”
Riot City Wrestling added: “We at Riot City Wrestling are saddened by the passing of Kristen Mitchell, better known to RCW fans as Miami.
“Kristen was a firey competitor in the RCW Women’s Divison under the moniker of the ‘Party Starter’ and was a part of many fantastic battles for Riot City Wrestling from 2008 to 2014.
“Her contributions to the early years of RCW will continue to be celebrated.
“We wish our sincere condolences to her family, friends and fans.”
Aussie wrestling star Savannah Summers posted: “Devastated to hear about the passing of Kristen Mitchell aka @kristen_miami2110 she was an absolute legend and will be greatly missed. RIP”.