Former WWE and ECW Superstar Passes Away

In what proved to be a shocking turn of events, former WWE and ECW superstar Jonathan Rechner, better known as Balls Mahoney, has passed away at the age of 44.

Rechner had been suffering from illness after injuring his hip after a fall at his home in New Jersey. His wife claimed that Rechner was watching Jeopardy  and answering trivia questions just moments before his eventual death on Tuesday night. Rechner was found unconscious in his sofa and by the time the medics arrived, he had passed away.

WWE issued an official statement in their website saying the following.

"WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Jonathan Rechner, best known for competing in ECW as Balls Mahoney, has passed away. WWE extends its condolences to Rechner's family, friends and fans."

Rechner was best known for his time in the Philadelphia based Extreme Championship Wrestling where he performed in hardcore matches and earned himself a cult status. He also spent three years in WWE along with spells in TNA and other independent promotions.

He is survived by his wife, Gayle and an eight year old son. A GoFundMe campaign was set up on Wednesday morning to help Gayle, their son and also to support the funeral expenses.