ECW Original Axl Rotten Dies, Aged 44
The 44 year old was found near a Baltimore motel.
ECW Original Axl Rotten has tragically passed away, according to a report from PWInsider. The 44 year old, real name Brian Knighton, was found yesterday in a McDonald's, next to a Baltimore motel in which he was believed to have been staying. Knighton was active on Twitter some 10 hours before he was found - implying that his death was sudden. His last post read: 'The way I do things may not be the way you do things but you will find out there is only 1 way. My away! #AxlsTruth' Knighton made his professional wrestling debut in 1988, and was best known for his time in ECW, a period which spanned six years from 1993 to 1999. In 1995, he enjoyed an intense feud with brother Ian, a rivalry PWI named 'Feud of the Year'. He also briefly appeared in WWE, brawling with the Blue World Order at the inaugural One Night Stand pay per view in 2005. WWE released a statement yesterday, which read: 'WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Brian Knighton, best known for competing in ECW as Axl Rotten from 1993 to 1999, has passed away. WWE extends its condolences to Knighton's family, friends and fans.' Personal tributes have also been made from all areas of the wrestling community, including figures as diverse as The Iron Sheikh, Sid, and Rob Van Dam.