Chyna left behind quite a legacy.
The WWE Universe is in mourning following the news that the former WWF wrestler was found dead at age 45 Wednesday. Police in Redondo Beach, Calif., were called to Chyna’s apartment that afternoon after a friend discovered she was not breathing; the WWE superstar was pronounced dead on the scene. Chyna’s manager told E! News late Wednesday night that “she was found peacefully” but could not offer further details. As of now, her cause of death is unknown. However, police said there are no indications or signs that her death was the result of foul play.
Chyna’s death was announced via Twitter. “It is with deep sadness to inform you today that we lost a true icon, a real life superhero,” the statement read. “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.” WWE chief brand officer and former wrestler Stephanie McMahon posted a tribute to Chyna on her Twitter account, writing, “I just heard the tragic news that @ChynaJoanLaurer has passed. She was truly a pioneer in our industry, and she will be missed. #RIPChyna.”
As the news spread, past and present WWE Superstars tweeted their reactions to Chyna’s death.
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Chyna made her WWE debut in 1997 as an enforcer for Triple H. A founding member of the stable D-Generation X, she held the WWF Intercontinental Championship twice and the WWF Women’s Championship once. She was also the first woman to participate in the Royal Rumble and King of the Ring events. After leaving the WWF in 2001, Chyna wrestled occasionally, with New Japan Pro Wrestling in 2002 and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling in 2011. Additionally, Chyna appeared as a cast member on VH1’s The Surreal Life in 2005. She returned to the network in 2007 for The Surreal Life: Fame Games and again in 2008 for Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew. She also made six porn movies between 2004 and 2011, winning two AVN Awards.
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