Officials are desperately searching for ex-WWE superstar Shad Gaspard -- after he went missing during a swim at Venice Beach on Sunday with his 10-year-old son.
Gaspard and his son were among a group of swimmers caught in a strong rip current around 4 PM -- with lifeguards racing into the water to pull everyone out.
Gaspard's son was rescued -- but the 39-year-old pro wrestler has not been located.
One official working with the L.A. Fire Dept. told media they believe the 39-year-old "did submerge."
Divers were sent to scour the area.