Ex-WWE Wrestler 'Doink the Clown' Found Dead in Apartment

Former WWE wrestler Matt Osborne, or the original Doink the Clown, passed away at the age of 55. According to TMZ, he was found dead by his girlfriend in her apartment in Texas on Friday morning, June 28. Cause of death is currently not available.

The police in Plano, Texas reportedly launched a homicide investigation as standard procedure. Indications are that his death was accidental. There were no weapons found on the scene and autopsy would be carried out later.

WWE offered condolences in a statement in official site. "WWE is saddened by the news of Osborne's passing. Our deepest condolences go out to Osborne's family, friends and fans," the statement read. WWE said that the late wrestler "made major impact in WWE" and was described as "one of the most enduring personas of the early 90s."

Osborne is the son of a famous wrestler "Tough" Tony Borne. His father once challenged for the NWA World title and he was popular in Texas and Pacific Northwest area. Osborne later made his debut at the same territory after being trained by his father.

Osborne is known for his trademark clown costume, bright green wig and face paint. He pulled pranks on fans at the ringside and later he also did the same to the late Bryan "Crush" Adams in a Wrestlemania tournament. Teaming up with an identical Doink the Clown, he used a fake arm to slap Adams.

After leaving WWE in 1993, Osborne started wrestling in independent wrestling tournaments. Recently, he attended wrestling conventions and had signing sessions with fans.


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