Wrestlers, fans, and promotions alike have paid tribute to Francisco Ciatso following his sudden passing at the age of 48.
Ciatso was the subject of a 2019 documentary, Journeyman, and his death was shared publicly by Florida promoter Barry Rose via a Facebook post.
“We’d like to extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Francisco Ciatso, who passed away overnight. Frankie was a part of two CWF Legends Fanfests as he proudly presented the movie based on his life, Journeyman. RIP, champ.”
Tributes to Francisco Ciatso
As a competitor in multiple promotions, Ciatso created several friendships throughout his career. On Twitter, WWE Raw General Manager Adam Pearce was at a loss for words.
Godspeed, Frankie Ciatso. You were always good to me. I have no words. Another brother gone. Rest well, hermano. ?
— Adam Pearce (@ScrapDaddyAP) January 20, 2024
Indy-God Matt Cardona would also share his condolences with a picture of the late wrestler.
RIP @FranciscoCiatso! pic.twitter.com/w40pSOp44i
— Matt Cardona (@TheMattCardona) January 20, 2024
Kenny King described Ciatso’s sudden passing as “unreal.”
Unreal. Rest in power homie. pic.twitter.com/Q0Cy2vzCDW
— Evolving…. (@KennyKingPb2) January 20, 2024
Eric Koenreich recalled working with Fransico during his career. He said that Ciatso was a larger-than-life personality both in and out of the ring.
This is how far back I went with Frankie. I had only taken a handful of bumps when I started to go to IPW shows. One thing I’ll always remember is how much he loved being a worker. Dude was just as big of a personality outside of the ring as he was inside. pic.twitter.com/NZetk4ok2K
— Eric Koenreich (@erickoenreich) January 22, 2024
TNA Wrestling also shared their condolences to Ciatso’s friends and family. Ciatso appeared for the promotion off and on as Frankie Capone.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Frank Caiazzo, who appeared in TNA as Francisco Ciatso and Frankie Capone. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his friends and family. pic.twitter.com/me6jIdEp2J
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) January 22, 2024
Byron Saxton said that Ciatso was the definition of passion and fortitude in the wrestling business.
Shocked and saddened to learn of @FranciscoCiatso’s passing. Anyone who has spent time on the Florida independent wrestling scene over the last 25-plus years in all likelihood encountered or knew Francisco. The true definition of passion and fortitude. Rest in Paradise friend. pic.twitter.com/glhaHM4BqS
— Byron Saxton (@ByronSaxton) January 21, 2024
Brian Heffron, asks the Blue Meanie, shared a tribute shirt that is available to purchase. Proceeds will go to Ciatso’s family. The NWA’s
The folks at @COLLARxELBOW have made a tribute shirt for Francisco Ciatso who we list way too soon. Proceeds go to his loved ones. R.I.P Frankie!https://t.co/BfZ1QdvsgG pic.twitter.com/sNoyfAfQFd
— Brian Heffron aka The Blue Meanie (@BlueMeanieBWO) January 22, 2024
The NWA’s Jeremiah Plunkett recalled Ciatso helping him through some difficult times in his tribute.
RIP @FranciscoCiatso. From locker room laughs to being total goofs as #TheJourneyman, Frankie was the epitome of a good brother. His smile brightened every locker room. He helped me through tough times & always reminded me to have fun. I appreciate, love, & will miss you, bud. pic.twitter.com/YuxYrO77rm
— Jeremiah Plunkett (@Plunkitis) January 20, 2024
A GoFundMe page has been created to help Ciatso’s family. It has already surpassed its goal but can still be donated to. Click here to find out more.