Posted on 9/11/126 by David Jarka
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EMPIRE STATE WRESTLING PRESENTS "BANG YOUR HEAD" IN NIAGARA
FALLS - WILL FEATURE SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO THE LATE ANDY
WILLIAMS
NIAGARA FALLS, NY – Empire State Wrestling (ESW) is set to
deliver its next event, "Bang Your Head," scheduled for
Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Frontier Fire Hall in
Niagara Falls, N.Y. Alongside a card featuring top-tier
independent wrestling talent, the evening will hold deep
emotional significance for the local community as ESW hosts
a special tribute to the late Andy Williams.
Williams, a North Tonawanda, N.Y. native who tragically
passed away on September 5 at the age of 48, was a beloved
figure whose talent bridged two completely different worlds.
Internationally celebrated as the founding guitarist of the
highly influential Buffalo metalcore band Every Time I Die,
Williams seamlessly transitioned into the squared circle,
becoming a staple on national television for All-Elite
Wrestling (AEW) as one half of the fearsome tag team "The
Butcher and The Blade."
Known for his distinctive look, hard-hitting style and
immense heart behind the scenes, Williams was widely
respected by fans, fellow musicians and locker rooms around
the globe.
"Andy was a towering presence not just in stature, but in
his kindness and creativity," said ESW promoter Brett
Stymus. "He represented the grit and passion of Western New
York to the rest of the world. We want to give his fans,
friends and the local wrestling family a chance to come
together, celebrate his life and give 'The Butcher' the
hometown salute he deserves."
The tribute to Williams will take place during "Bang Your
Head", allowing fans in attendance to come together in
appreciation for Andy's incredible contributions to the
worlds of professional wrestling and heavy music.
Event Details:
Event: Bang Your Head
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Location: Frontier Fire Hall, 2176 Liberty Drive, Niagara
Falls, NY 14304
Time: Bell-Time is at 7:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
Also Announced for "Bang Your Head":
An appearance by former WWE Tag Team Champions The
Headbangers
Ex-WWE & NJPW star Luke Gallows vs. TNA's "Special Agent
Zero" Bill Collier
ESW Heavyweight Champion Gregory Iron vs. NWA's Spencer
Slade
ESW Interstate Champion Chris Cooper vs. "Red Hot" Vinnie
Moon
Former NXT star Leon Ruff vs. Cheech
High Seas vs. Witch Doctor & a mystery partner
"The Native Wolf" Groff vs. Brennan The First
Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance at
ESWTIX.com. Further updates regarding the match card can be
found on Empire State Wrestling’s official social media
channels, including the official Facebook event page. Card
subject to change.