Former WWE wrestler Tony Jones has died at the age of 53.
Known as ‘The Shooter’ to wrestling fans, Jones was APW Universal Heavyweight Champion.
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Jones had several appearances for World Wrestling Entertainment in 1998, 2001, 2003 and 2007.
Despite these stints, he is most recognized for his role alongside his occasional tag team partner Mike Modest in the 1999 Barry W. Blaustein documentary “Beyond the Mat”.
A statement released this morning by All Pro Wrestling said: “All Pro Wrestling is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former APW Universal Heavyweight Champion “Shooter” Tony Jones.
“Shooter, rest in power. Enjoy paradise with your little girl. We will always love you, brother. Anthony “Shooter” Jones 1971 – 2024.”
Fans also shared their condolences after hearing the news.
One said: “RIP Tony Jones. Tony was always a kind man who would show up to shows and the locker room would be thrilled to see him. Thanks for everything Tony. Gone too soon.”
Another added: “My first wrestling show was Pro Wrestling Iron International Challenge Vol 1.
“When I first saw “shooter” Tony Jones, that man was something special, he was very talented and very underrated. RIP “Sniper Tony Jones”.
Details about his death have not been disclosed.
Born and raised in San Francisco, Jones attended Archbishop Riordan High School, where he excelled in wrestling, football and track.
He continued his wrestling career at San Francisco State University, graduating with a degree in broadcasting in 1995.
Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 270 pounds, Jones pursued professional wrestling training at Roland Alexander’s All Pro Wrestling school.
He made his debut in January 1997 after a year of training.
Filmmaker Barry Blaustein documented Jones’ journey into the wrestling world, capturing his WWE tryout match alongside Michael Modest in September 1998 for his documentary “Beyond the Mat.
He was first ranked in Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s Top 500 in 1998 at #462 and rose to #213 in 2004.
Jones had two children, his daughter, Selina, died in 2000. On January 19, 2004, Jones wrote in Facebook: “My daughter would have turned 24 today.
“Not a day goes by without me thinking about and loving her to the fullest.
“Selina got into pro wrestling (I wonder why haha) so I’m sharing one of my previous birthday wishes for my princess.
“Keep looking at me and I promise to always represent you. Happy birthday, princess. Daddy loves you so much, girl.”
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