Pro Wrestling Star Joe Doering Passes Away at 44 After Courageous Brain Cancer Battle — Fans React

Former AJPW Triple Crown Heavyweight Champion and Impact Wrestling standout Joe Doering has died at the age of 44 following a third battle with brain cancer, his family confirmed on 26 June 2026. Doering entered hospice care just days earlier after the aggressive tumor returned despite multiple surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy. A two-time Triple Crown champion in All Japan Pro Wrestling and two-time Impact World Tag Team titleholder, the 6-foot-8 Chicago native first broke out in Japan in 2007 before enjoying runs in WWE developmental, TNA and independent circuits worldwide. His hard-hitting style and Violent By Design faction helped spark IMPACT’s resurgence during the pandemic era. Diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in 2016, Doering returned to the ring after treatment, only to face recurrences in 2022 and 2025. Despite mobility loss caused by ataxia, he remained an inspiration to fans and peers, often saying, “Keep fighting—every day is a gift.” Memorial details have not yet been announced, but supporters can contribute to the family’s medical-expense GoFundMe linked on social media. Search interest in “Joe Doering” has surged as tributes pour in from wrestlers such as Eric Young, Suwama and Josh Alexander, underscoring the global impact of his 20-year career.