WWE Star Joanie “Chyna” Laurer Has Died at Age 46

Joan Laurer, the groundbreaking WWE female wrestler known as Chyna, passed away on Wednesday at 46 years old. A friend found Laurer unresponsive in her Redondo Beach, CA apartment and notified police. Cause of death is not yet known but, there are no signs of foul play.

“It is with deep sadness to inform you today that we lost a true icon, a real life superhero. Joanie Laurer aka Chyna, the 9th wonder of the world has passed away, She will live forever in the memories of her millions of fans and all of us that loved her,” read a statement shared on her website and Twitter.

In 1996, Chyna was named the “Rookie of the Year for the Women’s Championship,” according to her website. She was discovered by Paul Levesque (Triple H) and made her television debut in 1997 as his bodyguard. She soon went on to break all gender stereotypes by competing (and beating) some of the toughest men in the industry. A few years later, Chyna became a regular on VH1’s reality shows when she joined the cast of The Surreal Life in 2005 and later appeared on The Surreal Life: Fame Games and Celebrity Rehab With Dr. Drew.

Many stars of the wrestling world have been sharing in remembering Chyna on social media:

Someone who wasn't afraid to blaze her own trail & create a path for those who would follow. A pioneer whose star shined bright. #RIPChyna

— Triple H (@TripleH) April 21, 2016

https://twitter.com/AmyDumas/status/723074848738676736

Joanie, I'm so sorry. I will always treasure our friendship and will never forget your kindness to my children. RIP https://t.co/pVV0KjbkFt

— Mick Foley (@RealMickFoley) April 21, 2016

 

Devastated over Chyna passing,she dated Brutus years before wrestling,such a beautiful soul and so kind to my children,rip Joanie love u. HH

— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) April 21, 2016

 

https://twitter.com/JamesStormBrand/status/723006428726870016