Hearing Set For Man Charged With Murder Of Former WWE Developmental Talent Kevin Nikel

The man charged with murder in the shooting death of former WWE developmental talent Kevin Nikel is set for a hearing next month. PWInsider reports that Michael Hogue, who is alleged to have shot and killed Nikel in July of 2025, is set for a pre-trial hearing in his case on July 15th in Arkansa.

Nikel, who competed as Ivan Warsaw and Knuckles Madsen on the independent scene, died on July 11th, 2025. Hogue has been charged with first degree murder and possession of firearm by certain persons. He is reportedly the romantic partner of Nikel’s ex-wife Amanda Penny. Penny and Nikel reportedly finalized their divorce days before the shooting.

According to court records, Hogue claimed that the two had an argument via text and social media before meeting for a confrontation. Hogue claims Nikel pulled a gun, which led to a phsyical struggle where the gun went off twice. Nikel was found by authorities and identified Hogue as his shooter before he passed away at a local hospital.

Penny was initially charged with first degree murder as well. Those charges were dropped in February and she is now charged with hindering apprehension, prosecution, conviction or punishment of another as well as possession of firearms. She was released on her own recognizance and ordered not to have any contact with Nikel’s family, which likely includes her son. She was ordered to report to The Victory Mission Bible Training Center in Arkansas, where she must undergo “all aspects” of the Center’s services including counseling.

Hogue faces between 10 and 40 years or life imprisonment if convicted, while Penny faces up to 20 years. Penny is scheduled for a court hearing by way of Zoom on July 28th.

Nikel began his wrestling career in 2007 and worked matches for a variety or promotions including TSW, the UWN and Memphis Wrestling. He was signed to a WWE developmental contract in 2012 and 2013, working several house shows for NXT under the name Knuckles Madsen. His last known match was in July of 2024.