Former WWE wrestler Kevin Nikel, who performed under the ring names Knuckles Madsen and Ivan Warsaw, was fatally shot in Rogers, Arkansas, on Friday morning, July 11, 2025. The 41-year-old wrestler was found bleeding from a gunshot wound to his abdomen and died at a local hospital despite medical intervention.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident in the area of East Highway 12 near Rogers, Arkansas. Deputies discovered Nikel with an abdominal wound and transported him to a nearby medical facility, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Lt. Shannon Jenkins, spokesperson for the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed that “a man was shot and killed near Rogers early Friday morning.” Jenkins indicated that the department would not release additional details at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.
According to reports, 50-year-old Michael Hogue was taken into custody on a probation/parole hold at an address matching the location where the shooting occurred. However, Hogue has not been charged with any crimes related to the shooting incident. He is currently being held on a probation and parole violation as authorities further the investigation.
Nikel maintained an active wrestling career spanning nearly two decades, beginning his professional career in 2007. He competed for various independent promotions, including TSW, UWN, Memphis Wrestling, and Championship Wrestling throughout his career. His final documented match took place in July 2024, marking the end of an 18-year career in professional wrestling.
The wrestler’s stint with WWE took place between 2012 and 2013, during which he performed in the company’s developmental territory, NXT, under the character Knuckles Madsen. During his time with the promotion, he primarily participated in house shows and dark matches, sharing the ring with notable performers such as Mojo Rawley, Kassius Ohno, Rusev, Baron Corbin, and CJ Parker.
Following his departure from WWE, Nikel continued competing on the independent wrestling circuit under the name Ivan Warsaw. He appeared for various regional promotions and maintained his presence in the wrestling community, particularly in Texas and Arkansas markets.
Nikel leaves behind his eight-year-old son Zac, who colleagues described as the center of his world. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to cover the costs of the memorial service and provide financial support for his son. The fundraising effort has generated over $12,600 as of July 16.
Ozark Mountain Wrestling, where Nikel had been working recently, announced plans for a memorial service on Friday, July 18, from 2-3 PM at New Hope Assembly of God, located at 2626 W New Hope Road, Rogers, Arkansas.
The wrestling community has responded with numerous tributes following news of Nikel’s death. TNA X-Division Champion Moose expressed his shock, noting that he and Nikel were scheduled to wrestle the following weekend. He described Nikel as having a great heart and being an excellent professional wrestler who would be deeply missed.
Memphis Wrestling honored Nikel’s memory by highlighting his strong-willed nature and powerful voice, describing him as a force both inside and outside the wrestling ring. The organization emphasized his impact on their wrestling family and the broader wrestling community.
Several wrestling promotions, including NWA Texas and Dog Pound Wrestling, issued joint statements mourning Nikel’s passing. They emphasized that his contributions to professional wrestling would never be forgotten and extended condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
WWE veteran Eric Rowan, currently a SmackDown Tag Team Champion, paid tribute to Nikel on social media with a simple message accompanied by a black heart emoji. Independent wrestler Stallion Rogers described Nikel as one of the real cowboys in professional wrestling, noting that he was a good man who loved his family and friends.
Former WWE performer Enzo Amore reflected on his professional relationship with Nikel, stating that one of his matches against him was among his favorite career encounters. Amore noted that he had spoken with Nikel just the previous week and expressed disbelief at the news.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office continues investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting incident, with no arrests made in connection with the case as of the latest reports. Authorities have not disclosed additional details about potential motives or the sequence of events leading to the shooting.
