Michael Jones, better known as Virgil in the world of wrestling, passed away after battling health issues. He has been open about his illness in the past, even reaching out to fans for help.
WWE legend Michael Jones, known professionally as Virgil and affectionately dubbed the "Meatsauce God" by his legion of fans, has passed away at the age of 61.
The news was confirmed through a heartfelt announcement on his official Instagram account, plunging the wrestling world into mourning. The statement read, "This is to confirm the sad news about our beloved Meatsauce God and Wrestling Superstar Virgil/Michael Jones has passed away."
The message, while brief, conveyed the profound loss felt by those who knew him, highlighting his remarkable legacy both in and out of the ring. The official WWE Facebook page and Referee Mike Charles III also confirmed the news.
Charles' post offered a glimpse into Jones' final moments, revealing that the wrestler peacefully passed away at the hospital on the morning of February 28, 2024. He also called for prayers for Jones and his family.
Jones' health struggles in recent years were no secret. Charles was among those who kept in close contact with Jones amidst his decline and revealed that his good friend had suffered from two minor strokes in recent years. Jones was also diagnosed with dementia in 2022.
In January 2023, a GoFundMe page was set up to assist with Jones' physical therapy and medical bills, reflecting the wrestling community's efforts to support one of their own. The page revealed that the once strong wrestler weighed 154 pounds then and had limited mobility in his arms and hands.
Jones himself had previously reached out to fans for help, a move that underscored the financial and emotional challenges he faced. "It saddens me to be in this position but my bills are pulling up and I need more medication. I am about $3000 short to get me through the next few months. Any help will be humongous." he wrote on Instagram.
Despite these struggles, Jones remained a beloved figure, known for his charisma, talent, and the indelible mark he left on professional wrestling.
Jones may not have had children of his own, but he leaves behind a legacy that transcends the wrestling world. He began his illustrious career in the mid-1980s with the Championship Wrestling Association.
His early feuds with notable wrestlers set the stage for a vibrant career that would see him join the World Wrestling Federation (1987 – 1994), where he became widely known as Virgil. His role as the bodyguard for the 'Million Dollar Man' Ted DiBiase is perhaps one of what he is remembered for.
After retiring from professional wrestling, Jones took a remarkable turn, dedicating himself to education. With a degree in mathematics from the University of Virginia, he ventured into teaching, eager to share the knowledge he had gained throughout his life.
Sadly, another recent passing in the entertainment industry happened on the same day after actor Richard Lewis succumbed to a heart attack. He too battled health issues.
