She was a pillar of support for Nick Gage, a stalwart of the independent wrestling scene since the 1990s. Sondra Culbertson, the longtime partner of independent wrestler Nick Gage, has died at the age of 43, according to a post made by wrestling promotion GCW on X. The news has sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling community, with many taking to social media to pay their respects to the late Culbertson. In a post of his own on X, GCW owner Brett Lauderdale remembered Culbertson as a woman with “an unbreakable spirit, an infectious laugh and an attitude that never quit.”
A Brief History of Nick Gage’s Career
Nick Gage has been a prominent figure in the independent wrestling scene since the 1990s, with a career spanning multiple promotions and territories. Some of his notable appearances include:
• CZW
• GCW
• AEW
• Beyond Wrestling
• IWA Mid-South
• ROH
Gage is best known for his work in CZW, where he has been a staple for over two decades. His time in GCW has been relatively recent, but he has quickly become a fan favorite in the promotion. Culbertson was frequently seen cheering Gage on at GCW and CZW events, and was interviewed for the 2021 episode of “Dark Side of the Ring” that focused on Gage. The two had been together for over 25 years, and Culbertson was a constant presence in Gage’s life. “Those that knew her will never forget her,” Lauderdale wrote. “She had an unbreakable spirit, an infectious laugh and an attitude that never quit. She never lost an argument but it sure was fun to argue with her. I’m lucky to have shared so many laughs with her and Nick over the years.”
Wrestlers from across the industry have been paying tribute to Culbertson, with many sharing their own memories of her. Joey Janela, Tony Deppen, and former ROH star Cheeseburger are among those who have offered public remembrances of Culbertson. They were together 26 years through the good times and bad,” Janela said. “Not many people could say the same in this day and age, true love. One of [the] realest, RIP Sondra. Show your love for the king, he loves you all!”
Other notable tributes include:
Public Remembrances

• Joey Janela: “They were together 26 years through the good times and bad. Show your love for the king, he loves you all!”
• Tony Deppen: “My heart goes out to Nick and the Gage family during this difficult time. Sondra was a wonderful person, and I’m so grateful to have had the chance to know her.”
• Cheeseburger: “My heart is heavy today. Sondra was an amazing woman, and I’m so lucky to have called her my friend. She will be deeply missed.”

The staff of Wrestling Inc. would like to offer condolences to Nick Gage and the family and friends of Sondra Culbertson. The passing of Culbertson has left many in the wrestling community feeling shaken, but also a sense of gratitude for the time they had with her. As Lauderdale said, “I’m lucky to have shared so many laughs with her and Nick over the years.”
A Legacy of Love
Sondra Culbertson’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched, and the memories she helped create. Her love and support for Nick Gage were unwavering, and her presence at his events and matches was always a welcome sight. She was more than just a partner – she was a friend, a confidant, and a source of strength. For many, Culbertson’s passing is a reminder of the importance of true love and partnership in our lives. As Janela said, “One of [the] realest, RIP Sondra. Show your love for the king, he loves you all!” The outpouring of love and support for Culbertson is a testament to the impact she had on those around her, and the lasting legacy she will leave behind. A Memorial to Sondra Culbertson
A memorial to Sondra Culbertson is being planned, with details to be announced soon. In the meantime, fans and friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of her on social media using a hashtag. This will help create a permanent tribute to her memory, and ensure that her spirit continues to live on. We will continue to provide updates on this story as more information becomes available. Sources:

1. GCW Owner Brett Lauderdale
2. Joey Janela
3. Tony Deppen
4. Cheeseburger
5. Wrestling Inc.