Former WWE star Tony Jones has died at the age of 53.
Tony, best known to fans as “The Shooter,” is the APW Universal Heavyweight Champion and made a string of appearances for World Wrestling Entertainment in 1998, 2001, 2003, and 2007. But perhaps his most famous role, along with his on-off tag team partner Mike Modesto, 52, in Barry W. Blaustein's 1999 documentary Beyond the Mutt.
His death was announced in a statement from All Pro Wrestling: “All Pro Wrestling is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former APW Universal Heavyweight Champion 'Shooter' Tony Jones.”
“Shooter, rest in strength. Enjoy paradise with your baby girl. We love you always, brother. Anthony “Shooter” Jones 1971-2024.
Further details regarding Tony's death have not yet been released.
Fans shared their shock at the loss, with one saying on X: “My first professional wrestling show was Pro Wrestling Iron International Challenge Vol.1.
“When I first saw Tony Jones in Shooter, I knew this guy was something special, very talented, and very underrated. Rest in peace Tony Jones, Shooter. ”
Another added: “A mainstay of indie wrestling in California. Most people will remember him from 'Beyond the Mat' when he and Mike Modesto had a tryout match with the WWF. “And JR told him to put more muscle on his upper body to 'join the hunt.'”
Born in San Francisco, the 6-foot-5-inch Tony attended Archbishop Riordan High School, where he was a prodigy in wrestling, football, and running.
He continued his wrestling career at San Francisco State University, graduating in 1995 with a degree in broadcasting.
Weighing 270 pounds, Toney received professional wrestling training at Roland Alexander's All-Pro Wrestling School and debuted in January 1997.
Film director Barry Blaustein's 'Beyond the Mat' traces his journey into the world of wrestling, chronicling his WWE tryout match with Michael Modesto (real name Michael K. Cariglio) in September 1998. .
Toney was ranked 462nd on the Pro Wrestling Illustrated Top 500 in 1998, but rose to 213th in the league table in 2004.
He had two children and was devastated when his daughter Serena died in 2000.
Tony wrote on Facebook on January 19, 2004: “My baby girl would have turned 24 today.
“There's not a day that goes by that I don't think about her and love her as much as possible.
“Since Selina has fallen in love with pro wrestling (I wonder why lol), I would like to share one of my past birthday wishes with Princess.
“Please continue to watch over me, and I promise to always take your place. Happy birthday, princess of heaven.
“Daddy loves you so much, baby.”