Former pro-wrestler, Jimmy Rave dies months after having both of his legs amputated

Jimmy Rave, a former professional wrestling champion who later struggled with drug addiction has died after losing an arm and both of his legs to amputation. 

The former Impact Wrestling star died at the age of 39, months after the amputation was carried out due to a MRSA infection.

Rave, who was born in Atlanta, began his professional career in 1999. He wrestled for several promotions, including Full Impact Pro and Ring of Honor. He won multiple championship titles with National Wrestling Alliance and he appeared on World Wrestling Entertainment’s “Sunday Night Heat.”

While cause of his death was not revealed in a statement written by the wrestler’s agent Bill Behrens and his daughter, Kailah, his addiction was however captured. 

It read; 

“James was one of my kids and his loss hurts me and many others, and we wish we could have saved him, but we could not.

“James Michael Guffey has died at the age of 39. James was best known as Professional Wrestler Jimmy Rave. His career started in 1999, continued for over 2 decades. He was a two-time NWA World Junior Heavyweight Champion. He appeared in Total Non-Stop Action Wrestling, where he teamed with Lance (Hoyt) Rock as the ‘Rock and Rave Infection.’ 

“Outside of wrestling, he held the position of Director of the Bartow County, Georgia Peer Support, Wellness, and Respite Center for several years. James had been struggling with drug addiction for many years. His struggles resulted in the amputation of his arm and, later, both of his legs.

“James is survived by his ex-wife Felicia, daughter Kailah, son James II, and his parents Jim & Toni Guffey. At the time of his death, he was living in Philadelphia, PA area with Gabby Gilbert.” 

Rave’s memorial services will be held in Georgia. In November 2020, Rave revealed on Twitter that he was retiring from wrestling after doctors found an infection in his left arm, which resulted in his arm being amputated above the elbow.