REDONDO BEACH, Calif, April 21, 2016 (Gephardt Daily) — Joan Laurer, who was known to her fans as Chyna has died. She was 45.
According to CNN, police in Redondo Beach, California, confirm that Laurer, 45, was found dead in her apartment on Wednesday. Police say they were notified by a friend who went to check on her and found Laurer unresponsive. The cause of death is under investigation, but police say there are no signs of foul play.
A post on her webpage said, “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.”
After graduating from the University of Tampa, Chyna started training in the world of professional wrestling and in 1996 was named the “Rookie of the Year for the Women’s Championship,” according to her website.
She wrestled in the Royal Rumble and King of Ring tournaments and became the only undefeated Women’s Champion in WWF (World Wrestling Federation) history, CNN reports.
Fellow wrestler, James Storm posted on Twitter, “Thoughts and prayers go out to Chyna’s family. She was always cool with me. #Rip9thWonder.”
Stephanie McMahon of WWE, from the World Wrestling Entertainment, Tweeted: “She was truly a pioneer in our industry, and she will be missed. #RIPChyna.”
Chyna also appeared in TV, magazines, music videos and adult films. In 2001 Chyna wrote an autobiography, “If They Only Knew.”
