Rest in Peace – Mike “Trent Acid” Verdi
11/12/1980 – 6/18/2010
It is with deep regret that CZW management has the unfortunate duty to report on the passing of one of it’s own. Early this morning, Michael “Trent Acid” Verdi passed away in his home in South Philadelphia at the age of 29, just blocks away from the building where he helped revolutionize the business he so deeply loved. The entire extended CZW family is in mourning over the loss of one its true homegrown stars, and a man who was a friend to so many, both inside the business and out. We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to his family and friends as they grieve for his loss.
Trent Acid lived to wrestle. From the time he first stepped thru the curtain at the world famous “ECW Arena”, it was clear that he was no ordinary wrestler. This kid from the streets of South Philly was born to entertain, and for more than a decade, he did all that and more. In his storied career, Trent Acid won titles all over the world, but the ones that meant the most to him were those that came in his own neighborhood. In 2002, Trent acheived what many would consider to be the highlight of his career when he defeated Jody Fleisch in front of a capacity crowd at the Arena to become CZW’s second ever “Best of the Best” Champion. Trent was also a gifted tag-team wrestler, tagging with longtime friend and partner to form the “Backseat Boyz”, together changing the tag-team game as we knew it, while taking their act all over the world in the process. In addition to his contributions in the ring, Trent gave back to the business outside the ring. As a trainer, he helped mold the careers of many of the next generation of professional wrestlers. His advice was priceless, and it was sought by many who wanted to be the very best at their craft.
For over a decade, we watched as he grew from the flashy, energetic youngster with the infectious smile, to becoming a certifiable International Superstar. Now, for many years to follow, we will remember him as one of the greatest independent wrestlers of all time, and his memory will never die.
On the afternoon of Saturday, July 10th at 230pm, The Arena in South Philly, along with CZW and Trent’s friends and family will come together for a very special tribute show to honor his life, and memory. Admission to the event will be free, with a suggested $10 dollar donation. 100% of the proceeds will go to Trent’s family, many of whom will be on hand for what should be a very emotional afternoon. Stay tuned to CZWrestling.com, and the usual media outlets for more on this event.
www.czwrestling.com