Joe Doering, a professional wrestler, died on Thursday at age 44 after a nearly decade-long battle with brain cancer, Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling announced.
“Though his time on this earth lasted only 44 years, Joe packed a thousand years’ worth of living into every one of them. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Lindsay, his family, and leaves behind countless friends and devoted fans around the world who will forever remember his strength, courage, and spirit. Rest in peace, Joe. You will never be forgotten,” the Maple Leaf Pro said.
Doering’s death follows years of health struggles tied to brain cancer. He was first diagnosed with brain cancer in 2016 and underwent surgery to remove a tumor.
In August 2022, Doering’s tumor returned after seven years. He stepped away from wrestling and underwent additional brain surgery, along with chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
In 2025, Doering was diagnosed with a third brain tumor and later entered hospice care. On June 10, 2026, his wife shared a photo of Doering sitting up in a hospital bed, offering a rare public update on his condition shortly before his death.
The wrestling world shared tributes following his death. TNA Wrestling, where Doering was a two-time tag team champion, called him a standout performer and extended condolences.
Doering was born in Chicago, Illinois. He began his professional wrestling career in 2004 and competed internationally, including in TNA, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, All Japan Pro-Wrestling, and various independent promotions. He was known for his physical, hard-hitting style and a dominant presence in the ring.
In Japan, Doering achieved some of his greatest successes, becoming a two-time Triple Crown Heavyweight Champion in All Japan Pro Wrestling. In later years, he joined the TNA faction Violent By Design.
"I think he knew the cancer had returned, or at least had a gut feeling. Regardless, he kept it all to himself,” he said. “When it came time for the match, he was down for everything. Angle slam off the apron to the floor? Let’s do it. Superplex? He was down.”
“We had a 20+ main event title match on PPV. I can’t imagine the pain or discomfort he was feeling at the time. But in true Joe fashion, he was an absolute warrior,” he said, adding, “He fought cancer for so long. I can only hope that he can finally rest now.”