The Tragic Passing of a Wrestling Legend
Broderick Shepherd, a beloved and dynamic figure in the wrestling world, has tragically passed away at the age of 32 while in Mexico. Known under the ring name ‘Australian Suicide,’ Shepherd left an indelible mark on the wrestling community with his electrifying performances and infectious personality. His untimely death has sent shockwaves through the sport, leaving fans and colleagues in mourning.
A Career Shaped by Passion and Perseverance
Born in Melbourne, Australia, Broderick Shepherd’s journey to becoming a renowned wrestler began in his home country, where he competed under the names Ryan Rollins and ‘El Australiano.’ However, it was his move to Mexico in 2013 that truly defined his career. There, he found a new identity as ‘Australian Suicide’ and quickly rose to prominence, performing in Lucha Libre AAA, Mexico’s equivalent of WWE. His unique style, which combined high-flying acrobatics with a punk rock flair, captured the hearts of fans and earned him a dedicated following. Shepherd’s ability to connect with the audience was unparalleled, and his performances were always a highlight of any show he was part of.
Legacy in the Ring
The wrestling community has been quick to honor Shepherd’s legacy. Melbourne City Wrestling, a organization where he made his mark early in his career, led the tributes. In a heartfelt statement, they expressed their deep sorrow and remembered his time in Australia fondly. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Broderick and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time," they wrote. "We fondly remember his time in MCW and Australia, where he brought joy to every show with his infectious energy, unforgettable outfits, and song choices. His willingness to entertain never failed to put a smile on our faces." Fellow Lucha Libre AAA wrestler John Jesus ‘Mecha Wolf’ Yurnet also paid his respects, sharing his grief and a promise to keep his friend’s memory alive. "F*** man. This one hurts a lot," he wrote. "RIP brother @australian.suicide I will blast @cancerslug all day for you. Love you bro. I will see you again soon."
A Family Torn by Sorrow
The news of Shepherd’s death was announced by his partner, Puerto Rican wrestler Vanilla Vargas, on social media on Friday. Vargas, also a prominent figure in the wrestling scene, shared her pain and the urgent need to repatriate Shepherd’s body to Australia. "It is with great pain that I want to share that my daughter’s father has passed away unexpectedly," she wrote on Instagram. "He was originally from Australia, and our highest priority at this time is to fulfill his wish to rest in his country with his family." The couple welcomed their daughter in 2021, and the family’s loss is compounded by the sudden and unexpected nature of his passing. Vargas’s emotional post has resonated with fans and colleagues alike, who have rallied to support her in this difficult time.
The Urgent Appeal for Assistance
Vanilla Vargas has launched a fundraising campaign to cover the costs of repatriating Shepherd’s body. The total cost of the process is $10,000, a significant sum that the couple cannot manage on their own. "The reparation process (Sending the body) is URGENT and we have a deadline of 48 hours to gather the necessary funds," Vargas emphasized. Her plea has been met with an outpouring of support from the wrestling community and fans, highlighting the strong bonds forged within the industry. Every donation, no matter how small, is a step towards bringing Shepherd home and honoring his final wishes.
Remembering Australian Suicide
Broderick Shepherd, or ‘Australian Suicide’ as he was known in Mexico, was more than just a wrestler; he was a performer who lived and breathed his craft. His energetic ring presence, coupled with his eclectic choice of music and costumes, made every match a memorable event. Whether it was his signature high-flying stunts or his interactive pre-match antics, Shepherd always left a lasting impression. His dedication to his art and his passion for entertaining the crowd will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of wrestlers.
A Community Unites in Support
In the wake of this tragedy, the wrestling community has come together to support Vanilla Vargas and her daughter. The outpouring of condolences and financial assistance reflects the close-knit nature of the industry and the respect Shepherd earned throughout his career. As fans and colleagues continue to pay tribute, the focus remains on honoring his memory and ensuring that his final wish is fulfilled. The passing of Broderick Shepherd serves as a poignant reminder of the impact one individual can have and the importance of supporting each other in times of need.
