The Passing of Mike Jones (Wrestling Icon “Virgil”): On Wednesday, the wrestling world mourned the loss of Mike Jones, a former WWE/WCW star, who passed away at the age of 61. Jones, best known to pro wrestling fans as “Virgil,” had been battling health issues and was hospitalized recently.
Health Struggles: Wrestling Icon “Virgil”
Jones had been facing significant health challenges in recent times, having been diagnosed with dementia in 2022. Additionally, he had experienced two minor strokes, further complicating his health situation.
Announcement by Referee Mark Charles III
The news of Jones’ passing was announced by Pittsburgh-area referee Mark Charles III, who expressed sorrow and requested prayers for Jones and his family during this difficult time. In a heartfelt message, Charles III remembered Jones by his various wrestling personas, including Virgil, Vincent, and Soul Train Jones, highlighting the impact Jones had on the wrestling community.
As fans and colleagues mourn the loss of Mike Jones, known affectionately as Virgil, his contributions to the world of professional wrestling will be remembered fondly. May his memory live on, and may his family find comfort in the outpouring of support from the wrestling community. Read More
A Wrestling Journey: The Legacy of Mike Jones
Early Career in WWE
Mike Jones, known to wrestling fans as Virgil, had a notable career spanning several decades. He rose to prominence during his tenure with WWE from 1986 to 1995. Primarily recognized as the loyal bodyguard to “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase, Virgil captured the hearts of fans and achieved a significant milestone by defeating DiBiase for the Million Dollar Championship at SummerSlam 1991.
Ventures in WCW
Transitioning to WCW from 1996 to 2000, Jones continued to make his mark in the wrestling world. Embracing various personas such as Vincent, Shane, and Curly Bill, he found himself aligned with iconic stables like the nWo, adding layers to his wrestling persona and captivating audiences with his versatility.
AEW and Beyond
In more recent years, Jones made appearances on AEW programming under the moniker “Soul Train Jones,” showcasing his enduring presence in the wrestling scene. As a friend of Chris Jericho and The Inner Circle, he brought a sense of nostalgia to AEW events. His final televised wrestling appearance was a cameo on the April 29, 2020 episode of AEW Dynamite, leaving a lasting impression on fans.
Beyond the Ring
Beyond his stints with major wrestling promotions, Jones remained active on the convention circuit and made appearances at independent events, including engagements with GCW. His presence extended far beyond the confines of WWE and WCW, illustrating his enduring impact and connection with wrestling enthusiasts across various platforms.
