Tributes have poured in for Australian wrestling pioneer Kristen “Miami” Mitchell, who has passed away aged just 36.
Mitchell has paved the way in which for female wrestlers in each South Australia and Victoria, and has competed and mentored women who’ve turn out to be a few of the biggest names in world wrestling.
Certainly one of the ladies she competed against was current SmackDown Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley, who paid tribute to Mitchell.
“Thanks for the memories…rest in peace,” Ripley wrote on her Instagram Stories.
The news, which shocked the Australian wrestling community, was brought to light by Wrestle Radio Australia, which issued an announcement.
![Australian professional wrestler Kristen](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/05/NYPICHPDPICT000010548799.jpg?w=1024)
“Australian Wrestling is saddened by the lack of Kristen Mitchell aka Miami.
“The impression she has made on the industry, each within the ring and behind the scenes, in regards to the way forward for the business is immeasurable and can be deeply missed by all who ever did.
“She can be greatly missed by all who’ve ever had the privilege of knowing and working along with her.
![Mitchell is remembered as a pioneer of wrestling in Australia.](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/05/NYPICHPDPICT000010548791.jpg?w=1024)
“Her kind heart and bubbly positive attitude are how we’ll all remember her and the world is a less shiny place today for this reason loss.
“Our condolences exit to all her family and friends presently.
“RIP Kristen and thanks for being you.”
Mitchell was a Riot City competitor in Adelaide before moving to Melbourne and working for Melbourne City Wrestling.
It was there that she competed with stars similar to Ripley, KC Cassidy, Shazza McKenzie and Toni Storm.
Melbourne City Wrestling remembered Mitchell as a “fierce, formidable and fearless” competitor who taught and would-be female wrestlers every thing she knew.
![Mitchell both competed and mentored other wrestlers who rose to fame in the United States.](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/05/NYPICHPDPICT000010548796.jpg?w=1024)
“Behind the scenes, Kristen’s contributions have been invaluable,” they said in an announcement.
“While running the MCW Academy in lots of hats, the trainer and mentor encouraged the following generations of talents to never quit and follow their dreams.
“Our company, your complete Australian wrestling community has lost a friend, a mentor, an irreplaceable person with an infectious smile never giving up – it’s a lovely day to follow your dreams.”
Adrenaline Pro Wrestling tweeted: “We at Adrenaline Pro Wrestling are saddened by the news of the passing of Kristen ‘Miami’ Mitchell.
“We would like to extend our condolences to Kristen’s family, friends and everyone affected in our industry during this difficult time.”
Riot City Wrestling added, “We at Riot City Wrestling are saddened by the passing of Kristen Mitchell, higher known to RCW fans as Miami.
“Kristen was a fiery competitor within the RCW Women’s Division under the moniker “Party Starter” and participated in lots of improbable battles in Riot City Wrestling from 2008 to 2014.
“Her contribution to RCW’s early years will proceed to be celebrated.
“We extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends and fans.”
Australian wrestling star Savannah Summers wrote: “Depressed by the news of the passing of Kristen Mitchell aka @kristen_miami2110, she was an absolute legend and can be greatly missed. TEAR.”