Wrestling legend Michael Jones, known to fans as “Virgil” and “Vincent,” died on Wednesday at the age of 61.
Jones was best known for his portrayal of the character “Virgil,” the assistant of the “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase in the World Wrestling Federation, now known as World Wrestling Entertainment. Virgil and DiBiase’s feud is remembered fondly by ’80s wrestling fans as one of the highlights of each of their runs.
After his WWF run concluded, Jones embarked on World Championship Wrestling, the WWF’s premier competition at the time. Jones undertook a new persona: “Vincent.” Jones also joined the popular New World Order stable, his most notable move in the company. Vincent was a member of the nWo’s “B Team” along with Scott “Flash” Norton, Buff Bagwell, Konnan, and others.
The operator of Jones’ Instagram account left a sprawling message on a post of remembrance.
View this post on Instagram
“This is to confirm the sad news about our beloved Meatsauce God and Wrestling Superstar Virgil/Michael Jones has passed away. There is so much to say here, and I would love to share stories, but for now, it’s a rough day as our friend is gone. We would only ask at this time to remember him as the man that he was. Wishing him all the unlimited pasta in heaven. We love you, Mike,” the post read.
Others left tributes, including WWE, and several personalities and wrestlers former or otherwise.
WWE is saddened to learn that Michael Jones, known to WWE fans as Virgil, has passed away.
WWE extends its condolences to Jones’ family, friends and fans. pic.twitter.com/i9QDodn9BD
— WWE (@WWE) February 28, 2024
Never got to know Virgil, but I know how much he meant to this business. My thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him. 🕊️ ❤️ pic.twitter.com/pOlYdgw05O
— Kayla Braxton (@KaylaBraxtonWWE) February 28, 2024
Virgil turning on Ted DIBiase and that crowd reaction tells you everything you need to know about what a moment it was. pic.twitter.com/rUz6eiZAEz
— The Black Guy Wrestling Podcast (@bgwpod) February 28, 2024
At a show once, I did a stare out into the crowd mid-ring and one of the boys asked if I was channeling Rock/Hogan? I replied, “Or Virgil/Dibiase.” He thought I was joking. This vid is what I was referring to. Virgil was overAF with me after turning on Dibiase. #RIPVirgil #ThankU pic.twitter.com/oBJRVMqb87
— Hurricane Helms (@ShaneHelmsCom) February 28, 2024
Virgil and Bret Hart dapping up before their WWF Title match in November of 1992.
RIP Virgil 🙏🏽🕊️
Thank you for your contributions. https://t.co/MWSdh8cGqW— The Black Guy Wrestling Podcast (@bgwpod) February 28, 2024
Godspeed, Virgil. My heart goes out to his family and friends. Rest well, sir. https://t.co/mlm1prxXnh
— Adam Pearce (@ScrapDaddyAP) February 28, 2024
Shocked and saddened to hear the news about Virgil.
Rest in peace, my friend. pic.twitter.com/G78YZnSPaS
— JakeSnakeDDT (@JakeSnakeDDT) February 28, 2024
When Virgil joined WCW as the newest member of the nWo, Vincent
— On This Day in WWE (@OTD_in_WWE) February 28, 2024
RIP Virgil
A good man and a performer who really left his mark on wrestling. pic.twitter.com/1TaBrOqrlg
— Hacksaw Jim Duggan (@RealHacksawJim) February 28, 2024
I’m sorry to hear that Former WWE star Virgil, real name Michael Jones, has passed away at 61, weeks after suffering 'several strokes' My thoughts are with his family and his numerous fans. RIP pic.twitter.com/cpjjM2fjTF
— Marc Mero (@MarcMero) February 28, 2024
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mike "Virgil" Jones. TNA Wrestling offers its heartfelt condolences to his friends and family. pic.twitter.com/FoZ5k3tH82
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 28, 2024
I remember Virgil cornering me for 15 minutes in a hotel lobby to tell me that when he first got to WWE they invested 300 million dollars into his character and that he was going to be world champion but it never panned out. He always had a crazy story every time I saw him. RIP
— Anthony Bowens (@Bowens_Official) February 28, 2024
Rest in peace to Michael Jones. Best wishes to his family and those who loved him dearly.
