“Bad Bones” John Klinger Passes Away At Age 40; Wrestling Community Mourns Loss
The wrestling world is in mourning following the tragic passing of German wrestling icon John Klinger, better known to fans as “Bad Bones.” Klinger, a beloved figure in European wrestling circles, passed away at the age of 40, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
Wir verabschieden uns von “Bad Bones” John Klinger.
John Klinger war über ein Jahrzehnt einer der prägenden Wrestler bei wXw. Er hat alle großen Titel bei wXw errungen und sowohl 16 Carat Gold als auch Shortcut to the Top gewonnen. In seinen knapp 450 Matches im wXw-Ring hat er… pic.twitter.com/ISBZfbjJax
— wXw Germany (@wXwGermany) May 20, 2024
A mainstay in the European wrestling scene for over a decade, Bad Bones first burst onto the scene in 2004, quickly making a name for himself with his unique blend of athleticism and charisma. Over the years, he captured the hearts of fans around the world with his memorable performances in promotions such as wXw, PROGRESS, and TNA.
News of Klinger’s untimely passing was first announced by wXw, the promotion where he rose to prominence. In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, wXw paid tribute to their fallen comrade, highlighting his numerous accomplishments and contributions to the sport:
“We say goodbye to ‘Bad Bones’ John Klinger. John Klinger was one of the defining wrestlers at wXw for over a decade. He won all of the major titles at wXw and won both 16 Carat Gold and Shortcut to the Top. In his almost 450 matches in the wXw ring, he always worked hard and did his best to excite his fans. At just 40 years old, John died far too early, shortly before his planned retirement. We wish his family and friends strength in this difficult time.”
always a pleasant face during my few years of travelling to germany. a true pioneer of european wrestling.
RIP Bad Bones 💕 https://t.co/dlT9J5JZSR
— Kyle Fletcher カイル・フレッチャー (@kylefletcherpro) May 20, 2024
TNA, where Klinger also made a significant impact, joined in honoring his memory, recognizing him as both an exceptional wrestler and a remarkable human being:
“We are in mourning at the loss of ‘Bad Bones’ John Klinger – an incredible wrestler and even better person. A former Gut Check winner, Bad Bones appeared on our UK Tours and was part of our success in his home country of Germany. Our thoughts are with his friends and family.”
We are in mourning at the loss of ‘Bad Bones’ John Klinger – an incredible wrestler and even better person.
A former Gut Check winner, Bad Bones appeared on our UK Tours and was part of our success in his home country of Germany.
Our thoughts are with his friends and family. pic.twitter.com/hkOqJbCfD9
— TNA Wrestling UK (@ThisIsTNAUK) May 20, 2024
Klinger’s final match took place on May 11th, just days before his passing, where he emerged victorious over Morgan Webster in Prime Time Wrestling. Tragically, his retirement plans were cut short, leaving the wrestling community shocked and saddened by his sudden departure.
In the wake of Klinger’s passing, tributes from wrestling stars across the globe flooded social media, reflecting on his impact both inside and outside the ring. From WWE to AEW, colleagues and friends shared their fond memories and heartfelt condolences for the fallen star.
Man, I just heard the news about John “Bad Bones” Klinger.
What a gem of a human. I had so much fun wrestling/traveling with John back in our NWE days in Europe.
My condolences to all of his friends and family.
Rest well, my friend.
— Corey Graves (@WWEGraves) May 20, 2024
Rest in Peace “Bad Bones” John Klinger.
I’m glad we got the chance to share the ring, good sir. My sincere condolences to his family.
— Christopher Daniels (@facdaniels) May 20, 2024
RIP John Klinger.
So many times I arrived tired and weary in a foreign land, and Bad Bones was a friendly face that I was relieved to see; whatever weird wacky adventure awaits, we’re here together. That’s a unique bond that only brothers and sisters in our wrestling fraternity… pic.twitter.com/WLZ5Bb4yfJ
— Nick Aldis (@RealNickAldis) May 20, 2024
Madeleine’s Value: As the wrestling community grapples with the loss of one of its own, it’s important to remember the impact that figures like John Klinger have had on the sport. Beyond his in-ring prowess, Klinger’s kindness and camaraderie touched the lives of all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of wrestlers and fans alike.
