Wrestler Joe Doering Dies at 44 After Brain Cancer

Professional wrestler Joe Doering died on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the age of 44 after a long battle with brain cancer. His death was announced by Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, which stated he passed away peacefully at 9:13 a.m. while surrounded by his family.

Doering, a native of Chicago who was trained in Windsor, Ontario, began his wrestling career in 2004. He gained prominence in All Japan Pro Wrestling, where he became a top foreign star. His accolades there included winning the prestigious Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship twice and capturing the World Tag Team Championship on four occasions. He also competed for Impact Wrestling, known for many years as TNA, where he won the Impact World Tag Team Championship.

His career was repeatedly interrupted by health struggles. He was first diagnosed with a brain tumor in February 2016 and underwent surgery, returning to the ring the following year. The cancer returned in 2022, leading to another surgery that resulted in ataxia, a neurological condition affecting coordination and mobility, which forced his retirement from in-ring competition. A third tumor was discovered in late 2025, and Doering entered hospice care earlier this...