In a world dominated by muscle-bound men, WWF wrestler Chyna made her mark as the most well-known female wrestler in the sport. Her real name was Joan Marie Laurer and her start to transform her body came when she was sexually abused by fellow students who mocked her looks. She stated in a past interview that she decided she would no longer be a victim and began to engage in a regimen of bodybuilding and self -mprovement. After leaving the sport, Laurer suffered a series of health problems and waged a public battle with addiction that led to her appearing on the popular TV show “Celebrity Rehab” in 2008.
Most recently, friends and family grew concerned when they had not heard from the star after several days. Yesterday, police entered her home and found her dead from a possible overdose. Police surmised this because of the number of prescription bottles found in her home and her publicized battle with sleeping pills.There were no illegal drugs found inside the home, according to police.
After a successful career in the WWE, Chyna got into the adult porn industry, making at least six films between 2004 and 2013. She then faded quietly into the background of life and her own silent pain of depression and addiction. Her Twitter page confirmed her death with the following post:
“It is with deep sadness to inform you today that we lost a true icon, a real-life superhero. She will live forever in the memories of her millions of fans and all of us that loved her.”
Soon dozens of WWE wrestlers past and present began to post condolences for their friend. The WWE organization issued the following statement on her death:
“WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Joanie Laurer, best known for competing in WWE as Chyna, has passed away. A physically striking and wildly talented performer, Chyna was a true sports-entertainment pioneer. Not only did the Superstar dubbed “The Ninth Wonder of the World” help found the groundbreaking faction D-Generation X, but she also holds the distinction of being the first and only female to win the Intercontinental Championship. WWE extends its condolences to Laurer’s family, friends and fans.”
