Ex-WWE wrestler Joanie 'Chyna' Laurer dead at 45

Former World Wrestling Entertainment wrestler Joanie Laurer, better known by her in-ring name of Chyna, was found dead at her Redondo Beach, Calif., home Wednesday afternoon at the age of 45, according to her manager. No cause of death has been announced.

Known for her bodybuilder physique, Chyna made her WWE debut in 1997 and joined Shawn Michaels and then boyfriend Triple H in the group, “D-Generation X.” Chyna wasn’t just eye candy for Michaels and Triple H — she was a bodyguard, an on-air role up until that point was primary reserved for men.

Chyna eventually made the transition from bodyguard to wrestler and became the first woman to enter the Royal Rumble in January 1999. She made more history as the first and only female WWE Intercontinental champion, defeating Jeff Jarrett for the title in October 1999. During the height of popularity in the WWE, Chyna graced the covers of "TV Guide," "Newsweek" and "Playboy" magazines.

The WWE released the following statement Wednesday evening:

"WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Joanie Laurer, best known for competing in WWE as Chyna, has passed away.

"A physically striking and talented performer, Chyna was a true sports-entertainment pioneer. Not only was the Superstar dubbed "The Ninth Wonder of the World" a founding member of the groundbreaking faction D-Generation X, but she also holds the distinction of being the first woman to enter the Royal Rumble Match and the first and only woman to win the Intercontinental Championship."

Culled from Yahoo