European wrestling star Bad Bones John Klinger dies aged 40
The wrestling world is in mourning after the death of a famous European wrestling star who passed at the age of 40, just nine days after his final match.
German wrestling promotion Westside Xtreme Wrestling announced the passing of John Klinger — known as Bad Bones — on Tuesday.
Klinger was known for his time spent wrestling in Europe and occasional appearances with American company TNA.
“John Klinger was one of the defining wrestlers at wXw for over a decade. He won all of the major titles at wXw and won both 16 Carat Gold and Shortcut to the Top,” the X post began.
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“In his almost 450 matches in the wXw ring, he always worked hard and did his best to excite his fans.
“At just 40 years old, John died far too early, shortly before his planned retirement. We wish his family and friends strength in this difficult time.”
The cause or exact time of his death has not been revealed.
Klinger had a successful 20-year-long career, winning the top gong in 2007 in wXw’s Strong Style Tournament.
Klinger had a successful 20-year-long career, winning the top gong in 2007 in wXw’s Strong Style Tournament. Credit: Instagram
The wrestler held the wXw’s top title — the Unified World Wrestling Championship — three times.
Since the announcement of his death, hundreds of tributes have flowed from fellow wrestlers and fans.
Former WWE wrestler Flash Morgan Webster, who was his final opponent, recounted his last moments with Klinger.
“I only wrestled him 9 days ago,” he began.
“Was talking to him in Poland after the match about how he was gonna retire in September and was happy with what he’d achieved and was happy to step away on his own terms. Life can be so cruel. Rest in peace John.”
Professional wrestler Vinny Pacifico wrote: “Sending love to his family and loved ones during this time.”
“Man, I just heard the news about John ‘Bad Bones’ Klinger. What a gem of a human,” wrote WWE commentator Corey Graves.
“I had so much fun wrestling/traveling with John back in our NWE days in Europe. My condolences to all of his friends and family. Rest well, my friend.”
“Just a week ago seen him live, wrestling in Poland... Have no words, young man...,” one fan wrote on X.