WWE legend Virgil dead at 61

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Michael Jones, the pro wrestling superstar known as Virgil and Soul Train Jones during his time in the squared circle, has died, WWE announced Wednesday. He was 61.

The cause of death was not immediately revealed.

Mark Charles III, a referee for several smaller pro wrestling promotions, revealed Virgil’s death on Facebook.

"My dear friends, it is with great sorrow that I bring news from the Jones family of the passing of our beloved Michael Jones, whom we know and loved as Virgil, Vincent, Soul Train Jones and more," Charles wrote. "Virgil passed peacefully at the hospital this morning and I ask that you pray for him and for his family.

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"May his memory be eternal."

Virgil attends the 2010 Philadelphia Comic Con at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia on June 11, 2010.   (Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images)

WWE later confirmed his death.

"WWE is saddened to learn that Michael Jones, known to WWE fans as Virgil, has passed away," the company announced. "WWE extends its condolences to Jones’ family, friends and fans."

Virgil got his start with Memphis-based Championship Wrestling and later won championships in the American Wrestling Association.

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He moved to the World Wrestling Federation (now known as WWE) and became the bodyguard for "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. He and DiBiase were involved in pivotal moments with the company and had a hand in Andre the Giant beating Hulk Hogan for the World Heavyweight Championship after nearly five years. Virgil was in the corner of DiBiase and Andre in a tag-team