Mark Pobanz, aka Markus Crane, passed away at age 33 on Monday morning. Crane was best known for his work with GCW, Freelance, AAW and other companies as a deathmatch wrestler. No cause of death was announced at the time of his passing.
Crane took an extended sabbatical starting in December 2019 after an emergency room visit for a pre-existing injury resulted in doctors finding an infection in his skull that was leaking into his brain. Crane had an emergency craniotomy to remove a portion of his skull to allow treatment for the infection. A GoFundMe campaign had raised $22,350 to aid in his recovery
Crane had recently returned to the ring after recovering from his injury, competing against Kit Osbourne at GCW Planet Death on April 10, 2021.
GCW has issued the following statement on Crane’s passing:
With sadness, GCW mourns the loss of Markus Crane. As a performer, Markus embodied the spirit of GCW. He was an underdog and an outlaw. He was fearless in the ring and determined to succeed against the odds. He played a major role in GCW’s early success and was part of the heart and soul of our roster from day one.
Markus was passionate about GCW and Deathmatch Wrestling. We were proud to have him represent GCW at Korauken Hall during our inaugural tour of Japan.
In 2019, Markus suffered a traumatic brain injury that nearly took his life. We were all inspired (but not surprised) as he made a miraculous recovery and worked tirelessly to make his eventual return to the ring.
Most recently, Markus returned home to his family with a commitment to focusing his energy towards a healthier lifestyle. He had celebrated a series of milestones in his sobriety which he was proud to show off and left us all excited for his future.
As a friend, Markus was caring and loyal. He was quick to smile, or bring a smile to your face. We were all lucky to know him.
Rest in Peace, Markus.
We will miss youGCW
WrestleZone sends our condolences to the family, friends and other loved ones of Markus Crane at this time.
Awful news this morning.#RIPMarkusCrane
— Freelance Underground (@FreelanceUndrgd) December 27, 2021
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RIP MARKUS CRANE
You brightened our dysfunctional little world from the second you entered it.
Thank you for all the amazing memories that will last a lifetime.
I hope you knew just how loved you were by everyone!
— ICW No Holds Barred ⛓ (@ICWNHB) December 27, 2021
