- Michael Jones was an American wrestler
- He has passed away at 61
- The world of wrestling is pouring out tributes
With a career spanning WWF to WCW, Virgil's legacy is remembered as the wrestling community pays tribute to his life and battles both in and out of the ring.
Wrestlers unite in tribute
The wrestling world is in mourning! Michael Jones, the man who fought under the monikers Virgil, Vincent, and Soul Train Jones, has left the ring for the final time.
"Virgil passed peacefully at the hospital this morning," announced wrestling referee Mark Charles III, aka "The Count".
The news hit the wrestling community like a chair shot, with tributes pouring in from fans and fellow wrestlers alike. Virgil, a household name from the golden era of the WWF (now WWE), was renowned for his role as the bodyguard of "The Million Dollar Man", Ted DiBiase.
His persona catapulted him to fame, making him an unforgettable figure in the squared circle.
Jones's journey in the wrestling world began in the mid-80s, and he quickly became a fan favorite. After leaving WWE in '94, he grappled on the indie circuit before joining WCW as Vincent. His career, however, was cut short by injury in 2000, leading to his retirement.
But the fight outside the ring proved even tougher. In 2022, Virgil revealed his battles with dementia and colon cancer, and the strokes that followed.
Fundraisers were set up to support his medical and personal needs, showing the wrestling community's solidarity.
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Hollywood heartache
WWE Hall of Famer Jake "The Snake" Roberts and WWE star Luke Gallows were among those who expressed their shock and sadness, with Gallows thanking Virgil for "being a great sport during our shenanigans & for the memories."
As we bid farewell to this ring warrior, we echo the sentiment of his Instagram tribute: "Wishing him all the unlimited pasta in heaven. We love you Mike."
