As far as magicians go, it's safe to say Harry Houdini is one of the most widely recognized. Houdini transformed how we precieve magic, taking it from side-show back corners to sold-out theaters. The famed magician died on Halloween in 1926, ultimately succumbing to a sucker punch to the chest and a supersized ego.

Many are under the misconception that Houdini’s last trick was what caused his untimely death, but it’s actually what occurred prior to his final show that lead to his demise, we learn on SmarterEveryDay’s video. Houdini, whose real name was Ehrich Weiss, was known for his ability to withstand any punch. On October 22, 1926 a student from McGill University in Canada, renowned for his boxing skill, asked if he could deliver a punch to the magician. Unfortunately the student gave Houdini the blow before he had a chance to prepare and, as a result, he suffered an internal injury.

The cause of death on Houdini’s death certificate is listed as “peritonitis.” This is an infection of the inner lining of the abdominal most commonly caused by a rupture of the appendix. The condition requires prompt medical attention but is not considered to be particularly life threatening if treated properly.

Shortly after taking the lethal blow Houdini experienced severe pain and a 104 degree Fahrenheit temperature. However it took four doctors and nearly a week of convincing before the proud magician would visit a hospital. By then it was too late and the damage was irreversible.

Correction: The temperature of 104 Celcius has been changed to correctly read 104 Fahrenheit.