WWE star Michael Jones, aka Virgil, has passed away at 61. Wrestling referee Mark Charles III made the sad announcement on February 28. “Virgil died peacefully at the hospital this morning, and I ask that you pray for him and for his family. May his memory be eternal!” he shared in a Facebook post.
Jones’ health had deteriorated over the past years. In 2022, he announced in a series of posts on X, earlier known as Twitter (through Wrestling Inc), that he had suffered two strokes and been diagnosed with dementia.
The athlete made his first arrival as “Soul Train” Jones in 1987. He became one of the WWE’s top wrestlers before switching to the WCW in 1996. “Whether he was loved or hated, Virgil was one of the most honored Superstars of the 1980s and 1990s, as he was always willing to put himself into fight to protect his interests,” his WWE bio reads.
Fans pay tribute to the King of Beef
Michael “Virgil” Jones was known for his beef as much as his WWE throwing. Per Wrestle Zone, Virgil went at it with Shaun “LA Knight” Ricker in June 2021.
“First Stone Cold steals my haircut, now this dude? Is it just me, or am I seeing this guy rip off my same pose when I legitimized this title?” He ranted. “May have to show up this week and put my foot in yo a**!”
His love of slamming down out of the ring made Virgil a polarizing figure. Still, there was an outpouring of love following news of his demise. “Never got to know Virgil, but I know how much he meant to this business. My thoughts are with everyone who knew and adored him,” one fan shared on X, “R.I.P. to Virgil, who was honestly a legendary character in the pro wrestling world,” another wrote. “I was lucky enough to have a full day with Virgi, which included lunch and shooting an unforgettable episode of ‘CSR’ with him.”
After decades in the fame, Virgil’s contribution to the wrestling world was finally recognized in March 2023. “With pride & satisfaction, I am finally glad to announce that I have been inducted to the Hall of Fame,” he shared through X. Still, he managed to slip in yet more beef. “Thanks to the Miz for stealing my gimmick and to Damage Ctrl for me being their hero. Meat sauce goes Hollywood,” Virgil continued.