Former WWE star Virgil, best known for his role as the bodyguard of 'The Million Dollar Man' Ted DiBiase in the late-1980s, has passed away at the age of 61. Virgil, whose real name was Mike Jones, had a wrestling career that spanned both WWE and World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the '90s and 2000s.
His death was announced on social media by a close friend and former wrestling referee. Virgil had been battling health issues, including dementia and two strokes in 2022, which led to a GoFundMe campaign being set up to support him.
Originally from Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, Jones initially pursued a career in college football before transitioning to bodybuilding and eventually professional wrestling. He made his debut with the WWF (now WWE) in 1986 and gained prominence as DiBiase's bodyguard in 1987.
Throughout the late-'80s, Virgil became a fixture in the WWF's main event storylines, appearing alongside wrestling legends like DiBiase, Andre the Giant, and Hulk Hogan. However, his WWF career waned in the mid-'90s, leading him to join WCW and become the on-screen 'Head of Security' for the New World Order faction.
After retiring from full-time wrestling in 2000, Jones continued to make sporadic appearances as Virgil on WWE television and in independent wrestling circuits. His passing has elicited reactions from various wrestling personalities, with many expressing shock and sadness at the news.
Virgil's legacy as both an athlete and a person has been fondly remembered by those who knew him, highlighting his athleticism, reliability, humor, and camaraderie. His impact on the wrestling community, both in the ring and behind the scenes, will be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
