Jimmy Rave Announces Retirement Following Amputation
The former ROH star made the announcement Saturday...
Former ROH and Impact Wrestling performer Jimmy Rave announced his retirement on Saturday, following the amputation of his left arm due to an infection.
Rave wrote on Twitter, "I have been very blessed for the last 21 years in professional wrestling and getting to live out my dream. Today, that dream has ended for me and I have a new reality. This past Tuesday my world came crashing down when Doctors found an infection in my left arm. I tried toughing it out but by the time I saw a doctor it was too late and they had to amputate my left arm above the elbow. Thus effectively ending my in ring career.
I appreciate everyone who has supported me or anyone who has pegged me with a roll of toilet paper. To my brothers & sisters I have shared the ring with or a locker room; thank you for always pushing me to be better. Thank You to all of my mentors and my students who allow me to still feel needed. This was the hardest thing I have ever had to type. If you have questions or comments please feel free to DM me. Please take your health much more seriously than I did. I am sorry for anyone I have let down. Support pro wrestling! -Jimmy Rave"
A 21-year pro, Rave debuted for Ring of Honor in 2003. There, he became an integral part of Prince Nana's Embassy group, and had drawn heel heat to such degree that (as he noted in his tweet) fans took to throwing rolls of toilet paper in his direction, as opposed to streamers.
In 2005, Rave feuded with CM Punk, resulting in several victories for Rave, including in a dog collar match at that year's Manhattan Mayhem. Punk defeated Rave in a steel cage match one week later.
Also while in ROH, Rave won a trios tournament with Alex Shelley and Abyss. He later unsuccessfully challenged Bryan Danielson for the ROH World title.
In 2007, Rave joined Impact Wrestling, where he formed The Rock 'n Rave Infection with the man known today as Lance Archer. The two were managed by Christy Hemme.
Rave eventually rejoined Ring of Honor, working several stints for the promotion between 2009 and 2013. His final match took place in December 2019, as part of a six-man tag for Combat Zone Wrestling.
In his career, Rave held the NWA World Junior Heavyweight title twice, as well as CZW's Iron Man championship, and Full Impact Pro's Tag Team titles.
Written by Justin Henry
In addition to writing lists and commentaries for Cultaholic, Justin is also a features writer and interviewer for Fighting Spirit Magazine, and is co-author of the WWE-related book Titan Screwed: Lost Smiles, Stunners, and Screwjobs.
