Virgil Passes Away at Age 61

Former WWE and WCW wrestler Virgil, real name Michael Jones, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 61.

Jones’ passing was first announced by wrestling referee Mark Charles III on Facebook who stated that Jones had passed away peacefully at the hospital this morning.

“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!”

Following his passing, WWE paid tribute to Jones on Twitter.

WWE is saddened to learn that Michael Jones, known to WWE fans as Virgil, has passed away.

WWE extends its condolences to Jones’ family, friends and fans. pic.twitter.com/i9QDodn9BD

— WWE (@WWE) February 28, 2024

Jones’ wrestling career spanned from 1985 to 2019 and had notable stints in WWE and WCW. Jones was most known under the ring name of Virgil and as the bodyguard for the villainous “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase during his time in WWE.

Jones’ time in WWE was also notable for his memorable feud with DiBiase after the two had split up at Royal Rumble 1991 leading to the two facing off at WrestleMania VII, which was won by Jones by count-out. Jones later defeated DiBiase by pinfall at SummerSlam 1991 to win the unsanctioned Million Dollar Championship. Jones’ reign as the Million Dollar Champion would last until November of 1991 when DiBiase regained the title from him.

Following his departure from WWE in August of 1994 and brief return in June of 1995, Jones briefly worked for the National Wrestling Council before going to WCW in 1996. During his time in WCW, Jones was most known under the ring name of Vincent and as a member of the New World Order. As Vincent, Jones primarily worked as a valet for various members of the nWo over the years until its first dissolution in October of 1999.

Jones’ time in WCW also included him being known under the ring name of Curly Bill during his time as a member of the West Texas Rednecks, Shane during his time as a member of Vince Russo’s “Powers That Be” storyline, and as Mr. Jones during his brief time as the manager for Ernest “The Cat” Miller.

Jones’ retired from active wrestling from 2000 to 2006 and made several appearances afterwards for WWE, AEW, and the indies such as for Game Changer Wrestling for their Joey Janela Spring Break 3 show in 2019.

Outside of wrestling, Jones was most known for the “Lonely Virgil” meme, which featured a picture of Viril being seated all alone at a convention with nobody lined up to see him or get an autograph from him.

Jones’ notable career achievements and accolades included being a one-time Million Dollar Champion, a one-time AWA International Heavyweight Champion, and a one-time AWA Southern Tag Team Champion.