Top Aussie wrestler Kristen ‘Miami’ Mitchell dies aged 36

Australian top wrestler Kristen ‘Miami’ Mitchell has died at the age of 36.

In a statement, Wrestling Radio Australia said: ‘She will be greatly missed by anyone who has ever had the privilege of knowing and working with her.

“Her kind heart and sparkling positive attitude are how we will all remember her and the world is a less beautiful place today because of this loss.”

Mitchell paved the way for women’s wrestling in South Australia and is remembered as an ‘irreplaceable friend and mentor’ to the Australian wrestling community.

WWE star Rhea Ripley also paid tribute to Mitchell, writing, “Thanks for the memories… rest in peace.”

Mitchell was an in-ring competitor on Adelaide’s Riot City Wrestling before moving to Melbourne where she worked at Melbourne City Wrestling where she competed against some of the biggest names in women’s wrestling including Ripley (Demi Bennett), KC Cassidy ( Cassie Lee), Shazza McKenzie and Toni Storm.

She has been described as a “fierce, formidable and fearless” competitor whose work off the big stage was integral to shaping the future of women’s wrestling.

“Behind the scenes, Kristen’s contributions have been irreplaceable,” Melbourne City Wrestling said in a statement.

“A leader of the MCW Academy with many hats, a trainer, a mentor, she encouraged the next generation of talent to never give up and follow their dreams.

“Our company, the entire Australian wrestling community, has lost a friend, a mentor, an irreplaceable person with an infectious smile, who never gives up – ‘it’s a beautiful day to chase your dreams.’