As 2024 draws to a close, the professional wrestling community reflects on the influential figures we’ve lost this year. These individuals left indelible marks on the industry and in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Sid Eudy
Sid Eudy (December 16, 1960 – August 26, 2024). Known to wrestling fans as Sycho Sid, Sid Justice, and Sid Vicious, passed away at 63 after a battle with cancer. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, Sid was a dominant force in both WWE and WCW during the 1990s.
He was a two-time WWF Champion and a two-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion, headlining major events such as WrestleMania VIII and WrestleMania 13. Sid’s intense persona and powerful in-ring presence made him a memorable figure in professional wrestling.
Kevin Sullivan
Kevin Sullivan (October 26, 1949 – July 2, 2024), the legendary wrestler known as “The Taskmaster” and “The Prince of Darkness,” passed away at the age of 74. Sullivan was noted for his significant contributions both as a performer and behind the scenes in World Championship Wrestling (WCW).
He began his wrestling career in the 1970s, gaining fame for his dark and villainous personas, leading several infamous factions, and feuding with notable wrestling names like Dusty Rhodes and Hulk Hogan. Sullivan’s influence extended beyond the ring as he was a key creative force in WCW, shaping many iconic wrestling storylines and characters.
John Klinger (Bad Bones)
German wrestler John Klinger, known as “Bad Bones” (May 14, 1984 – May 20, 2024), passed away suddenly at the age of 40. Klinger made a name for himself wrestling around the world for various independent promotions since 2004.
He underwent three different stints with TNA in 2011, 2014, and 2017, sharing the ring with the likes of Christopher Daniels and Samoa Joe. His death was announced by wrestling promotion wXw, which is based in his homeland and revealed he was planning to retire soon before his passing.
Francisco Ciatso
Frank Caiazzo (November 5, 1975 – January 20, 2024), known professionally as Francisco Ciatso, passed away at 48. Ciatso began his wrestling career on the independent circuit in 1996 and made appearances in promotions such as NWA Florida and Deep South Wrestling. He also had brief appearances with WWE and TNA. In 2019, a documentary titled “Journeyman” was released, documenting his career.
Tony Jones
Tony Jones (April 6, 1971 – April 11, 2024), an American professional wrestler known for his appearances in the documentary “Beyond the Mat,” passed away at 53. Jones competed in North American independent promotions, specifically California-based All Pro Wrestling, Ultimate Pro Wrestling, and Xtreme Pro Wrestling. He also had stints in World Wrestling Entertainment in 1998, 2001, 2003, and 2007.
Sika Anoa’i
WWE Hall of Famer Sika Anoa’i (April 5, 1945 – June 25, 2024), one half of the Wild Samoans alongside his brother, Afa, passed away at the age of 79. In addition to his contributions in the world of professional wrestling, he was also the father of Roman Reigns and the late WWE star Rosey.
Virgil
Michael Jones (April 7, 1952 – March 22, 2024), known in the wrestling world as Virgil, passed away at 71 after battling multiple health issues, including colon cancer and dementia. Virgil began his wrestling career as Soul Train Jones in the Championship Wrestling Association in 1985 before moving on to the then-WWF in 1986.
He was best known as the bodyguard of “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase but also made it on his own, winning DiBiase’s Million Dollar Championship in the process. Virgil was also known to fans in WCW as Vincent, a member of the New World Order.
Rey Mysterio Sr.
Rey Mysterio Sr., a legendary figure in Mexican professional wrestling, passed away on December 20, 2024, at the age of 66. Born Miguel Ángel López Díaz, Mysterio Sr. was a trailblazer in the art of lucha libre, inspiring generations of wrestlers with his charisma, technical prowess, and dedication to the craft.
He played a pivotal role in shaping the futures of many prominent wrestlers, including his nephew, WWE superstar Rey Mysterio Jr., Konnan and Psicosis.
These individuals contributed significantly to the world of professional wrestling, each leaving a unique legacy. Their passion, dedication, and performances entertained millions and inspired future generations of wrestlers and fans alike. They will be deeply missed.
