Former pro-wrestling star, Chyna, was found dead in her Redondo Beach, Calif. home Wednesday (April 20) afternoon. She was 45.
Chyna’s manager confirmed the news via her website and social media accounts last night. “It is with deep sadness to inform you 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 millions of fans and all of us that loved her.”
A friend found Chyna unresponsive in bed. The friend had gone over to check on her because she hadn’t been answering the phone. Her exact cause of death is under investigation. Foul play is not suspected.
Chyna was a native of Rochester, N.Y.. She became a pioneer in women’s wrestling, joining the World Wrestling Federation (now the WWE) in 1997 through 2001. Following the end of her pro-wrestling run, she appeared on reality T.V., and briefly worked in porn.
She also battled addiction issues, which she addressed on VH1’s Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew in 2008.
Chyna most recently taught English in Japan.
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Photo: Instagram
