Joanie “Chyna” Laurer, former WWE wrestling sensation, has died at age 45. A statement confirming her passing reported that she died in her home in Los Angeles. No cause of death has been released.
Laurer was considered a pioneer in the world of wrestling for her work in putting female wrestlers in the spotlight. After leaving the WWE in 2001, she posed for playboy and appeared briefly on the reality show The Surreal Life. Professional wrestler Gregory Helms tweeted an emotional message after learning of her passing.
“All I can say is that Chyna was always incredibly kind to me,” Helms shared. “Life can be rough even to the strongest among us… Hug your loved ones tight.”
Image via Flickr/sabreblade
