Former WWF & NWA Referee David Dwinell Passes Away

David Dwinell had been in hospice care.

In December 2025, former WWF and National Wrestling Alliance referee David Dwinell shared that he was set to enter hospice care. He had been battling what he described as a rare and progressive condition called Paraneoplastic Neurological Syndrome.

In a Facebook post by the International Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame, it was revealed that Dwinell passed away on March 19th. Below is the post:

We are sad to report the family of Dave Dwinell has announced that he passed away on March 19th. Dave was a longtime referee for pro wrestling in the Northeast US.
Dave’s autobiography “Ringman” is a “must read” for anyone interested in the history of pro wrestling. I’d like to believe that Dave is reunited in heaven with his family and friends like Freddie Blassie and the Iron Sheik. He will be missed by all of us at the International Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, where Dave often was a volunteer tour guide.
Our prayers go out to Dave’s family during this difficult time.
May Dave Dwinell rest peacefully.

Dwinell’s book titled ‘Ringman’ can be found on Amazon.

Fightful would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of David Dwinell.