(WKBN) — Michael Jones, a former WWE superstar better known as Virgil, has reportedly passed away. He was 61.
Wrestling referee Mark Charles III first confirmed Jones’ death, writing on Facebook Wednesday morning, “My dear friends, it is with great sorrow that I bring news from the Jones family of the passing of our beloved Michael Jones, whom we know and loved as Virgil, Vincent, Soul Train Jones and more.”
“Virgil passed peacefully at the hospital this morning and I ask that you pray for him and for his family,” the post continued. “May his memory be eternal!”
A post made to his verified Instagram account also confirmed his death.
“There is so much to say here and would love to share stories but for now it’s a rough day as our friend is gone,” the post read. “We would only ask at this time to remember him as the man that he was. Wishing him all the unlimited pasta in heaven. We love you Mike.”
Virgil, who also performed under the name Curly Bill, made his in-ring debut in Tennesse in 1987, according to his WWE bio.
Later that year, he joined the WWE (then known as WWF) as a bodyguard for The Million Dollar Man, Ted DiBiase.
He also performed as Vincent as a member of the New World Order (NWO) in WCW in the late 1990s.
Virgil recently attended public events hosted by ATD Promotions. The company’s co-promoter, Anthony D’ Alfonso said in a statement Wednesday, “The one and only time that we had the pleasure of having Virgil for appearances, was nothing short of memorable. It was an experience I will not forget. He was truly a character in and out of the wrestling ring. May his memory live on forever!”
According to Nexstar’s WTRF, Virgil was diagnosed with dementia and suffered two strokes in 2022. His cause of death has not been released.
Jones made his last ring appearance in 2020.
