Former WWF/WCW superstar Virgil — real name Michael Jones — passed away on Wednesday at the age of 61.
Pittsburgh-area referee Mark Charles III confirmed the news announced the news on social media, asking for prayers for both Jones and his family.
“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,” Charles III said on Facebook. “Virgil passed peacefully at the hospital this morning and I ask that you pray for him and for his family. May his memory be eternal!”
Jones is best known for his work on WWF (now known as WWE) during 1986-1995, where he wrestled under the name Virgil and was often seen as the bodyguard for Ted Dibiase.
The superstar would then go on to work for WCW between the early 90s and 2000, and even made sporadic appearances on All Elite Wrestling in the last few years, where he appeared as “Soul Train Jones” alongside Chris Jericho.
Various wrestling stars and figures took to social media to offer condolences and reflect on the memory of Jones. ComingSoon sends condolences to Jones’ family and friends at this time.