Despite being one of the most controversial professional wrestlers, Chyna is still adored by millions of fans. “The Ninth Wonder of the World” rose to fame during the Attitude Era in the late 90s. Chyna was able to achieve success during an era where women were not given enough opportunities to showcase their talent in the wrestling world. She made history by being the first woman to win the WWE Intercontinental championship and enter the men’s Royal Rumble match. She’s also a founding member of the famous faction, D-Generation X and has defeated some big-name stars like Kurt Angle, Triple H and Chris Jericho.
Chyna, whose real name is Joan Laurer, left the WWE in 2001 to explore other options. After a short stint in the New Japan Pro Wrestling, she started working in the adult film industry.
Laurer tragically passed away in 2016 at the age of 46. She was found dead at her apartment by her manager Anthony Anzaldo. Initial police reports suggested that her death may have been caused by natural causes or a drug overdose. Anzaldo revealed that the WWE superstar was prescribed drugs but she was not using them correctly.
The autopsy report found that Chyna died because of a combination of muscle relaxers, painkillers and alcohol. In the toxicology report, it was found that she consumed alcohol alongside Diazepam. Other painkillers like Oxycodone and Oxymorphone were also found in her system. She also took the sleeping pill Temazepam and the anxiety drug Nordiazepam according to the test results.
A memorial service was held for the WWE legend on June 22nd, 2016. She was cremated and her ashes were scattered into the Pacific Ocean.
Chyna and Triple H were dating in real life.
One name that is linked with Chyna’s personal and professional life is WWE legend Triple H. Chyna and Hunter dated from 1996 to 2000. The couple spent plenty of time together both on and off screen during the Attitude Era and this led to them falling in love with each other.
Someone who wasn’t afraid to blaze her own trail & create a path for those who would follow. A pioneer whose star shined bright. #RIPChyna
— Triple H (@TripleH) April 21, 2016
The couple split over conflicts over the future of their relationship after dating for four years. Triple H reportedly wanted children but Chyna didn’t. Chyna’s issues with addiction also didn’t help the relationship. Triple H then went on to marry Vince McMahon’s daughter Stephanie McMahon in 2003. Chyna was in a relationship with WWE legend Sean Waltman. The couple released a s*x tape which became a huge success financially.
Chyna was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2019 as part of the D Generation X group. Many fans feel that she deserves to get an individual induction for her remarkable singles career in the WWE. Even if she never gets another Hall of Fame induction, Chyna will forever be remembered for her contributions to women’s wrestling.
