The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Joe Doering, the former TNA and All Japan Pro-Wrestling standout, who has passed away at the age of 44.
The news was announced Friday by Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, which revealed that Doering died peacefully on the morning of June 26 while surrounded by his family.
In a statement shared on social media, the promotion paid tribute to Doering’s life and legacy, noting the impact he made on those who knew him throughout his wrestling career and personal life.
A Career Built on Strength and Success
Known to many fans simply as “Big” Joe Doering, the Chicago native built a reputation as one of the most physically imposing performers in professional wrestling. Standing 6-foot-8, Doering combined his size and power with a hard-hitting style that helped him find success around the world.
After beginning his wrestling career in 2004, Doering’s biggest accomplishments came in All Japan Pro-Wrestling, where he became one of the promotion’s top foreign stars. During his time with AJPW, he captured the prestigious Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship twice and won the World Tag Team Championship four times.
His success in Japan established him as a respected veteran and one of the most accomplished international stars of his generation.
Impact in TNA Wrestling
American fans may best remember Doering for his run in TNA Wrestling as a member of Violent By Design, the faction led by Eric Young.
The group quickly became one of the promotion’s most dominant forces, with Doering playing a key role as the powerhouse enforcer. During his time with the faction, he helped capture the Impact World Tag Team Championship on two occasions, adding more championship success to an already impressive résumé.
Violent By Design’s mission of “curing the wrestling world of its sickness” made them one of TNA’s most memorable acts during that era.
A Long Battle With Illness
Outside the ring, Doering faced a difficult and courageous fight against brain cancer.
He was first diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2016 and underwent surgery shortly afterward. While he was able to continue wrestling following treatment, the disease returned in 2022, leading to a second surgery.
Following that procedure, Doering developed ataxia, a neurological condition that affects coordination, movement, and speech.
In late 2025, his family revealed that doctors had discovered a third brain tumor. Earlier this week, reports confirmed that Doering had entered hospice care.
Just days later, news of his passing was announced.
Remembering Joe Doering
Throughout his career, Doering earned respect from fans, promoters, and fellow wrestlers alike for his toughness, professionalism, and perseverance. Whether competing in Japan, North America, or elsewhere around the world, he left a lasting impression on the wrestling industry.
He is survived by his wife, Lindsay, along with his family, friends, and the many fans who followed his journey both inside and outside the ring.
Everyone at WrestlingNewsBlog extends their condolences to Joe Doering’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Joe Doering.
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