WWE Legend “Virgil” Dead at 61

WWE legend Michael Jones, better known as the “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase’s personal assistant and bodyguard, passed away this week at the age of 61.

News of Jones’ death was initially shared by Mark Charles III, a wrestling referee and friend of Jones.

“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!”

https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/michael-jones-best-known-as-wwfs-virgil-and-his-work-with-the-million-dollar-man-ted-dibiase-dead-at-61/

Jones has recently been facing serious health issues in the past few years, including multiple strokes and a dementia diagnosis.

Michael began his wrestling career in 1985 under the name “Soul Train Jones” before later wrestling under the name “Curly Bill.” Later on in his career, in 1986, Virgil made his debut as the bodyguard and assistant of “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase.

Jones moved on from the WWE in 1994 and joined the WCW, where he adopted the alias “Vincent.” After six years of involvement with the WCW, Michael retired in 2000.

In 1991, Virgil made his most well-known performance when he turned on his friend Ted DiBiase during the 1991 Superslam event and then went on to defeat him at WrestleMania VII.

Throughout his career, Jones worked alongside the biggest names in pro wrestling, such as Hulk Hogan and “The Million Dollar Man”.

In a 2016 interview with Ring Rust Radio, DiBiase shared some insight on his working relationship with Jones.

“When we were together, he was never a problem,” the Million Dollar Man said. “The guy didn’t drink, he didn’t smoke, he didn’t do drugs, he was always on time. Of course, you know you lay the foundation down when the relationship begins, and I think Virgil understood at least, he knew what his job was and he knew where his place was in terms of the pecking order. … We would do our thing on the road and then I would see him in three days or a week, whatever it was and then we would come back. I didn’t really socialize a lot with him so to speak, but we had a great working relationship and were friends.”

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2024/02/28/virgil-wwe-star-dies-61-mike-jones/72773437007/

After retiring due to injuries in 2000, Michael made an appearance with his longtime friend Ted DiBiase’s son, Ted DiBiase Jr., where he assisted him throughout his match, much like he did with his father in the 1980s.

Rest in peace!

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