Virgil also performed in independent promotion GCW in recent years. In addition to the promotion’s official X account paying tribute to the performer, owner Brett Lauderdale had some words to share.

“As a performer — an incredible athlete and a reliable soldier,” Lauderdale wrote. “As a person — he was funny, cordial, and unpredictable in all the best ways. He was a trooper and a friend of GCW. I truly feel lucky to have known him and I’ll share my personal ‘Virgil stories’ forever.”

Independent wrestler Tony Deppen had a few “Virgil stories” to share as well. The GCW performer recalled Jones being present at Deppen’s very first show in the business.

“He told me how he played football with Dan Marino and could run the 40 yd dash in 4.3 [seconds],” Deppen said. “Dude was the goat. RIP Virgil. Now you’re off to the big meat sauce in the sky.”

Impact Wrestling star Frankie Kazarian also paid tribute to Jones. Kazarian stated that his interactions with the late wrestler were always both friendly and memorable.

Jones had previously appeared alongside wrestling podcaster Sam Roberts numerous times on the air. Roberts offered his own brief tribute to the late wrestler today as well.

“I got to have a lot of fun with Virgil,” Roberts said. “Thank you and RIP to an unconventional icon.”