Actor Wyatt Russell Plunges Into Lake Erie After Sabres Bet

The Marvel star made good on his promise to take the icy dip if the Sabres made the playoffs.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 5:30pm

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An extreme close-up of Wyatt Russell's body mid-jump, dissolving into a vibrant, expressionist blur of neon colors and rapid brushstrokes, capturing the raw energy and excitement of his icy dip.Actor Wyatt Russell makes good on his promise to take the plunge into Lake Erie after the Buffalo Sabres ended their playoff drought.Buffalo Today

Buffalo Sabres fan and Marvel actor Wyatt Russell made good on his preseason bet, plunging into the chilly waters of Lake Erie after the Sabres ended their 15-year NHL playoff drought. Russell had vowed to take the icy dip if the team made the postseason, and he followed through on his promise despite the cold temperatures.

Why it matters

Russell's stunt highlights the passion and loyalty of Sabres fans, who have endured years of disappointment but remain devoted to their team. The actor's willingness to honor his bet also speaks to the fun, lighthearted side of sports fandom.

The details

Before the season started, Russell had said he would jump into Lake Erie if the Sabres made the playoffs, a feat the team had not accomplished since 2011. When the Sabres clinched a postseason berth, the actor made good on his pledge, plunging into the chilly waters near Buffalo's waterfront.

  • The Sabres clinched a playoff spot in early April 2026.
  • Russell made his Lake Erie jump on April 19, 2026.

The players

Wyatt Russell

A Marvel movie star and devoted Buffalo Sabres fan.

Buffalo Sabres

The NHL hockey team based in Buffalo, New York that ended a 15-year playoff drought in the 2025-26 season.

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What they’re saying

“I like an underdog story always, first of all, number one.”

— Wyatt Russell, Actor

The takeaway

Russell's willingness to honor his bet and take the plunge into Lake Erie shows the lengths some sports fans will go to support their team, even if it means braving the cold. His stunt captured the joy and excitement of the Sabres' long-awaited return to the playoffs.