Ex-TNA Star ‘Bad Bones’ John Klinger Passes Away at 40

The professional wrestling world has been hit with another tragic loss as former TNA star ‘Bad Bones’ John Klinger has passed away. The news of his passing adds to a particularly somber year for the wrestling world, which has already seen the loss of several beloved wrestlers just this year alone.

Klinger was best known for his time in TNA. Klinger first gained notable attention in January 2011 when he won the TNA Gut Check in London, England. This victory catapulted him into the TNA spotlight, where he competed against some of the biggest names in the industry. In February 2014, he made a memorable return to TNA, participating in several key matches. On February 1, he faced Christopher Daniels in a dark match but was defeated. Later that night, during a regular broadcast of IMPACT Wrestling, he suffered another loss to Samoa Joe.

Despite these setbacks, Klinger found success the following night at the ‘TNA One Night Only: Joker’s Wild 2’ pay-per-view. Teaming up with Samoa Joe, he secured a victory against Christopher Daniels and Robbie E in a qualifying match for the Joker’s Wild Gauntlet match. Although the $100,000 Joker’s Wild Gauntlet was ultimately won by Ethan Carter III, Klinger’s performance was a highlight.

On the February 27 edition of IMPACT Wrestling, Klinger was chosen by Magnus to face Magnus’ rival, Samoa Joe. Unfortunately, Klinger was defeated in this match. He made another notable appearance on the February 24, 2017 edition of IMPACT Wrestling, where he faced UFC veteran Josh Barnett, but once again came up short.

Beyond his TNA career, Klinger was a defining wrestler in Germany’s wXw (Westside Xtreme Wrestling). The promotion took to Twitter to honor his legacy, highlighting his contributions over more than a decade. Klinger won all of the major titles at wXw and triumphed in prestigious tournaments like 16 Carat Gold and Shortcut to the Top. With nearly 450 matches in the wXw ring, he consistently worked hard to excite and entertain his fans.

”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.”

No matter what, John Klinger will be remembered for his contributions to professional wrestling. We here at Ringside News offer our deepest condolences to John Klinger’s family and loved ones during this sad time.

Do you have any fond memories of John Klinger? Share your condolences in the comments section below.