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Brian Knighton — better known as Axl Rotten — of WWE fame died on Thursday at age 44.
"WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Brian Knighton, best known for competing in ECW (a branch of the WWE) as Axl Rotten from 1993 to 1999, has passed away. WWE extends its condolences to Knighton's family, friends and fans," the organization said in a statement.
Axl's mother, Maria, told Pro Wrestling Sheet that he was found dead in his car outside of a McDonald's in Baltimore — and it's currently believed he succumbed to an overdose, though an autopsy is scheduled for Friday.
“Brian lost his battle with his demon," she said. “Wrestling was what Brian lived and breathed. He loved his fans. Please pray for him and may God hold him in his arms forever.”
In the hours before his death, the pro wrestler shared this cryptic tweet with fans:
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
