Former WWE Women’s Champion and Intercontinental Champion Chyna dies at 45 years old
When you talk about unforgettable figures in the history of WWE and professional wrestling, the 9th Wonder of the World, Chyna, is someone that certainly comes to mind. Not only was her figure as a super talented and muscular woman unforgettable, but so was her place in the company as a part of D-Generation X and many other stories.
Sadly, it appears that Chyna—real name Joanie Laurer—has passed away.
A message was sent out from her verified official Twitter account on Wednesday night that the 45-year-old had passed away, sending her love from her team:
This certainly came as a shock to everyone on Wednesday night. Though Chyna hadn’t been seen in the best of shape as of late, no one knew that she was in bad health to the degree where her life was in jeopardy.
With details surrounding her death still scarce, let’s just remember for now the woman who was a memorable figure in professional wrestling. Chyna was a one-time WWF Women’s Champion and, perhaps more important for her legacy, was also a two-time WWF Intercontinental Champion. Here ability to compete in inter-gender matches as a believable and capable opponent is one of the more memorable things about her career in addition to just her domineering presence whenever she was on the screen.
There has been plenty of talk over the years about Chyna deserving a place in the WWE Hall of Fame and how that might not happen because of her career after wrestling in the adult film industry. Based on her impact in wrestling and in WWE, though, it’s a travesty she’s not in the Hall of Fame. Hopefully WWE will get past their ridiculous hang-ups now and make it happen—even if it’s too late.
Rest in peace.
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