ECW Wrestler Balls Mahoney Dead At 44

Famous wrestler Jonathan Rechner, more commonly known by his ring name Balls Mahoney, died suddenly on Tuesday night at the age of 44, just one day after his birthday. The cause of death is unknown.

ECW Wrestler Balls Mahoney Dead At 44

“WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Jonathan Rechner, best known for competing in ECW as Balls Mahoney, has passed away. WWE extends its condolences to Rechner’s family, friends and fans,” the World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. tweeted late Tuesday night.

Rechner, a New Jersey native, appeared with the ECW (Extreme Championship Wrestling) during the late 1990s and early 2000s. He began wrestling at the age of 15.

Several other wrestlers, including WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley, rapidly expressed their condolences via social media.

“Even among larger than life characters in pro-wrestling, he was one of those guys who stood out—who made you laugh, smile, or just walk away, shaking your head in disbelief, knowing you had another Balls Mahoney story to share with the boys,” Foley wrote in a long Facebook tribute.

Rechner took a rough fall just a few days prior to his death and severely injured his hip, according to PWInsider. He is survived by his son, Christopher and his wife.