Yesterday, WWE took to Twitter to announce that former WWE and WCW Referee Jay Henson has passed away. The cause of his death is still unknown. WWE statement reads, “WWE is saddened to learn that Mickie Jay Henson, former referee in both WWE and WCW, passed away at the age of 59.
WWE is saddened to learn that Mickie Jay Henson, former referee in both WWE and WCW, passed away at the age of 59.https://t.co/z64wYh6egL
— WWE (@WWE) February 15, 2022
Henson officiated his first match in 1987 at the Eddie Graham Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. He then joined WCW in 1992 and went on to referee in some of the promotion’s most memorable matches, including the ending of Goldberg’s historic undefeated streak at the hands of Kevin Nash at Starrcade 1998. Signing with WWE in 2005, Henson then brought his officiating expertise to more incredible bouts for years to come featuring the likes of John Cena, Kurt Angle, The Undertaker, Edge, and many more.
WWE extends its condolences to Henson’s family, friends and fans.”
Tributes flow in for Legendary WWE Referee Jay Henson
The demise of Jay has made the pro-wrestling world emotional. His CV is glittering with some legendary matches. Naturally, many members of the wrestling community have taken to Twitter to pay tribute to the former referee.
Former WCW and TNA wrestling ring announcer Mike Tenay tweets, “There has been a rash of wrestling-related deaths lately, but the passing of Mickie Jay Henson hurts. A close friend for over 30 years. Best known as a referee for WCW and WWE, but he was equally proud to have been the president of the Bobby Heenan Fan Club in his youth.”
There have been a rash of wrestling related deaths lately, but the passing of Mickie Jay Henson really hurts. A close friend for over 30 years. Best known as a referee for WCW and WWE, but he was equally proud to have been the president of the Bobby Heenan Fan Club in his youth.
— Mike Tenay (@RealMikeTenay) February 15, 2022
The Cauliflower Alley Club also tweeted: “Sending out the heartbreaking news that longtime friend Mickie ‘Jay’ Henson has passed away at 59 years old. “We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends as we once again grieve the loss of another family member from the wrestling world. R.I.P. Love ya, Mickie.”
Sending out the heartbreaking news that longtime friend Mickie “Jay” Henson has passed away at 59 years old. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends as we once again grieve the loss of another family member from the wrestling world. R.I.P. Love ya Mickie.. pic.twitter.com/zHIFnKrvxw
— CauliflowerAlleyClub (@CACReunion) February 15, 2022
Apart from this, many fans replied to WWE’s tweet to honor Henson’s memory. You can see a few of them below –
R.I.P. thank you for everything you did for the WWE and in WCW
And everything you did for the Wrestling Industry ok!!! Your in a good place now and most importantly your with God later
My name is Shamus by the way
A WWE Universe— Shamus Stoner (@ShamusStoner2) February 15, 2022
Heard the news hours ago, A legend! Loved how back in the day WWE acknowledged referees and they became familiar faces. These days it’s rare with the exception of Aubrey Edwards (aew) Jessica Carr and the OG Charles Robinson. RIP
— ufctna775 (@ufctna775) February 15, 2022
???? Rest In Peace man,I’m sorry to hear this has happened,my heart goes out to all your family,thank you very much for making memories as a good #WWE Referee you did a great job,you won’t be forgotten!!!
— Michael Guzman (@Michael_Guzman1) February 15, 2022
Losing a wrestling legend is never easy, many of them have passed away in recent years and this one is not easier to deal with.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jay Henson’s family and friends. May his soul Rest In Peace.
