Mike Jones: WWE Legend 'Virgil' Tragically Dies After Long Illness

• Virgil has been battling health issues for years after he quit wrestling
• The 61-year-old wrestler was diagnosed with dementia back in 2022
• The diagnosis came after the ex-wrestler had suffered two strokes

Former WWE superstar Mike Jones has tragically died aged 61.

Jones, who was best known by his stage name Virgil, is said to have died after a lengthy battle with illness.

The heartbreaking news was shared by wrestling referee Mark Charle III, who posted:

"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.

"Virgil passed peacefully at the hospital this morning and I ask that you pray for him and for his family. May his memory be eternal!"

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Virgil's death came barely two years after he was diagnosed with dementia, with the diagnosis coming prior to two strokes.

According to Wrestling News, Virgil had also claimed to be battling cancer, only for his sister to rebuff the claims.

Virgil's wrestling career

Sportskeeda reports that the 61-year-old made a name for himself with his feud with WWE Hall of Famer, Ted DiBiase.

He later went on to beat him to win the Million Dollar Championship.

He also starred alongside a number of big names, including Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant, and Roddy Piper.

Upon quitting the WWE in 1995, Virgil joined rival wrestling promotion WCW under the name Vincent.

His greatest highlight at the label was when he became a member of the popular group New World Order.

Virgil called time on his wrestling career in 2000 after spending close to five years with WCW.