It’s with heavy hearts that we share the passing of former WWE star Michael Jones, affectionately known to fans as Virgil. Wrestling referee Mark Charles III, also known as The Count, broke the news of Jones’ death through a heartfelt Facebook post.
“Dear friends, it’s with deep sadness that I relay the news of Michael Jones’ passing on behalf of his family. We knew and cherished him as Virgil, Vincent, Soul Train Jones, and more,” the post expressed. “Virgil peacefully passed away at the hospital this morning. We kindly ask for your prayers for him and his family. May his memory live on forever.”
Jones’ health had been declining over the years. In 2022, he suffered two strokes and was diagnosed with dementia. Earlier that year, he revealed his battle with stage II colon cancer. Last year, Jones created a GoFundMe page seeking help with minor expenses.
Born on June 13, 1962, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, Jones made his wrestling debut in 1985 as Soul Train Jones, primarily wrestling for Jerry Jarrett’s Continental Wrestling Association in Tennessee. He later joined WWE in 1986, initially under the name Lucius Brown, before being rebranded as Virgil, the manservant of Ted Dibiase, in the summer of 1987. This new persona catapulted Jones’ career and initiated the trend of him adopting names referencing other wrestling figures, with “Virgil” being a playful nod to Dusty Rhodes.
For nearly four years, Jones served as Dibiase’s loyal servant until turning against him at the 1991 Royal Rumble. This led to a significant feud throughout the rest of 1991, culminating in Jones’ victory over Dibiase at the 1991 SummerSlam for the Million Dollar Championship. After the feud’s conclusion, Jones’ position in WWE declined, and he eventually parted ways with the company in 1994, briefly returning for live events in 1995.
Following a stint on the independent circuit, Jones resurfaced on a national scale in 1996 by joining WCW as a member of the nWo, reuniting with Dibiase and serving as the group’s bodyguard under the name Vincent, a playful jab at WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. Despite primarily being a jobber for the nWo, Jones remained in the spotlight until the group disbanded in 1999. He then went on to various roles within WCW until his departure in late 2000.
After leaving WCW, Jones retired from wrestling but occasionally made independent appearances. He briefly returned to WWE in 2010 as Virgil, serving as Ted Dibiase Jr.’s bodyguard. In his later years, Jones gained recognition for his lively presence at conventions, becoming the subject of numerous memes. His last notable wrestling appearances were for AEW in 2019 and 2020 under his original moniker, Soul Train Jones, where he aligned with Chris Jericho’s Inner Circle stable.
Remembering WWE Icon Virgil
In conclusion, the passing of Michael Jones, known to wrestling fans as Virgil, marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the world of professional wrestling. From his early days in WWE to his later appearances in various promotions, Jones left an indelible mark on the industry. His legacy will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike, as Virgil’s contributions to wrestling will continue to resonate for years to come.
