Former WWE wrestling star ‘Chyna’ found dead at 45-years-old

Tragic news has hit fans of 45-year-old Joan Laurer, better known by her WWE professional wrestling name “Chyna.”

On Wednesday, a friend went to Laurer’s Redondo Beach apartment after failing
to contact her by phone for several days. The friend called 911 upon finding Laurer unresponsive in her apartment, according to ESPN.

A statement was released on “Chyna’s” website that read:

“It is with deep sadness to inform you that we lost a true icon, a real life superhero. Joanie Laurer aka Chyna, the 9th wonder of the world, has passed away.”

WWE chief brand officer Stephanie McMahon and executive vice president/wrestler Triple H expressed their thoughts for Laurer on twitter.

“I just heard the tragic news that @ChynaJoanLaurer has passed. She was truly a pioneer in our industry, and she will be missed. #RIPChyna”

I just heard the tragic news that @ChynaJoanLaurer has passed. She was truly a pioneer in our industry, and she will be missed. #RIPChyna

— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) April 21, 2016

“Someone who wasn’t afraid to blaze her own trail & create a path for those who would follow. A pioneer whose star shined bright. #RIPChyna”

Someone who wasn't afraid to blaze her own trail & create a path for those who would follow. A pioneer whose star shined bright. #RIPChyna

— Triple H (@TripleH) April 21, 2016

Investigators reported that there were no signs of foul play, but a coroner’s official reported that police initially filed the death as a “possible overdose.” An autopsy has been scheduled and it is noted that toxicology tests could take up to several weeks to determine the results.