DODGE CITY, KS. (THECOUNT) — Damian Mendez, a Dodge City, Kansas, Red Demon Wrestling three-time champion, has died of apparent heat stroke on Sunday.
Mendez, who recently graduated high school and was set to wrestle at North Dakota State University, died Sunday after a run while wearing a sweatsuit on Saturday.
He was discovered unresponsive by friends. According to reports, his body temperature was 107 degrees. He passed away on Sunday.
Mendez a three-time state champion, having won titles his freshman season in 2019, finished second his sophomore year in 2020, and then capped off two unbeaten seasons as a junior and senior in 2021 and 2022, reports KSN.
Dodge City wrestling coach Tate Lowe said players have been meeting to mourn. He posted this statement:
Heaven gained a champion last night. Damian Mendez passed away late last night due to heat stroke. He is probably challenging all the angels to some grind matches right now. There are no right words to say in a time like this. If you need to talk or just want to share stories and cry, I will be at my house 1404 circle lake drive all day and anyone is welcome to come by at anytime. RIP champ! We love you.
COACH LOWE
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