Tony Jones dead at 53: Former WWE star dubbed ‘The Shooter’ dies suddenly as tributes pour in
FORMER WWE wrestler Tony Jones has died at the age of 53.
Known as 'The Shooter' to wrestling fans, Jones was an APW Universal Heavyweight Champion.
Jones had several appearances in World Wrestling Entertainment in 1998, 2001, 2003, and 2007.
Despite these stints, he is most recognised for his role alongside his occasional tag team partner Mike Modest in Barry W. Blaustein's 1999 documentary, "Beyond the Mat."
A statement released this morning by All Pro Wrestling said: "All Pro Wrestling is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former APW Universal Heavyweight Champion, “Shooter” Tony Jones.
"Shooter, Rest in Power. Enjoy paradise with your Baby Girl. We’ll always love you, brother. Anthony “Shooter” Jones 1971 - 2024."
Fans have also shared their condolences after hearing the news.
One said: "RIP Tony Jones. Tony was always a kind man who’d pop up at shows and the locker room would be thrilled to see him. Thank you for everything, Tony. Gone way too soon."
Another added: "My first ever wrestling show was at Pro Wrestling Iron International Challenge Vol 1.
"When I first saw "shooter" Tony Jones That man was something special, He was very talented, and very underrated. RIP "shooter Tony Jones."
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Details about his passing have not been disclosed.
Born and raised in San Francisco, Jones attended Archbishop Riordan High School where he excelled in wrestling, football, and track and field.
He continued his wrestling career at San Francisco State University, graduating with a degree in broadcasting in 1995.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 270 pounds, Jones pursued professional wrestling training at Roland Alexander's All Pro Wrestling school.
He made his debut in January 1997 after a year of training.
Filmmaker Barry Blaustein documented Jones' journey in the wrestling world, capturing his WWE tryout match along with Michael Modest in September 1998 for his documentary "Beyond the Mat.
He was first ranked in Pro Wrestling Illustrated‘s Top 500 in 1998 No462 and rose as high as No213 in 2004.
Jones had two children, his daughter, Selina, died in 2000. On January 19, 2004, Jones wrote on : “My baby girl would have been 24 years old today.
"There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think and love her to my fullest.
"Selina started to like pro wrestling (i wonder why lol) so I’m sharing one of my past birthday wishes to my princess.
"Keep looking over me and I promise to always represent you. Happy heavenly birthday princess. Daddy loves you so much baby girl.”
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