Michael Jones, better known as Virgil, a former WWE superstar passed away at the age of sixty-one. He was also known by his ring names Virgil, Vincent, Soul Train Jones, and Curly Bill. Read on to know more about his death in detail.
Michael Jones passed away:
Wrestler Michael Jones passed away on February 28, 2024. Referee Mark Charles III posted this sad news on social media saying,
“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,” wrote referee Mark Charles III on Facebook early on Wednesday morning, confirming the news of Jones’ death.
“Virgil passed peacefully at the hospital this morning and I ask that you pray for him and his family,” the post went on to say. “May his memory be eternal!”
His passing was further verified by a post on his verified Instagram account and the post reads, “There is so much to say here and would love to share stories but for now it’s a rough day as our friend is gone.”
“We would only ask at this time to remember him as the man that he was. Wishing him all the unlimited pasta in heaven. We love you Mike.”
Michael Jones cause of death:
Jones had been struggling with his health in recent years, but no cause of death was given. In 2022, he revealed on X (formerly known as Twitter) that he had been diagnosed with early-stage dementia and had suffered two strokes.
The somber announcement has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow wrestlers, and colleagues. Many of his coworkers posted condolences on social media following his passing.
Who was Michael Jones?
Virgil, who was also known as Curly Bill, made his in-ring debut in Tennessee in 1987. Later that year, he became a bodyguard for Ted DiBiase, aka The Million Dollar Man, in the WWE (then known as WWF).
In the late 1990s, he also performed as Vincent, a member of the New World Order (NWO) in WCW. Virgil recently attended public events organized by ATD Promotions.
Anthony D’ Alfonso, the company’s co-promoter, stated in a statement on Wednesday that the only time they had the pleasure of having Virgil make appearances was unforgettable. It was an experience I will not forget. He was truly a character in and out of the wrestling ring. May his memory live on forever!”
In 2022, Virgil experienced two strokes and was diagnosed with dementia, according to local NewsNation affiliate WTRF. His cause of death has not been revealed. Jones made his final ring appearance in 2020.
Tributes to Michael Jones:
Pro Wrestling World wrote,
Breaking News : Michael Jones, who many Wrestling fans around the World knew as Virgil, has sadly passed away ….#RIPVirgil
Marc Mero posted,
I’m sorry to hear that Former WWE star Virgil, real name Michael Jones, has passed away at 61 weeks after suffering ‘several strokes’ My thoughts are with his family and his numerous fans. RIP
The Pro Wrestling World posted,
Michael Jones aka Virgil in the WWE, and who wrestled under the ring names Vincent and Soul Train Jones, has passed away at the age of 61. May he rest in peace. -TJ
Sportskeeda Wrestling wrote,
Sportskeeda extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Michael Jones, known to the wrestling world as Virgil
Roddy Piper wrote,
Our Family is sad to hear of Virgil’s passing. Sending Michael Jones Family and friends our love and prayers. Rest in Peace Sir. #Virgil