WWE issues statement regarding Chyna's passing

WWE.com has updated their homepage and published a statement on the death of Chyna earlier this morning:

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.

Upon hearing the sad news, WWE Chief Brand Officer Stephanie McMahon tweeted the following:

WWE extends its condolences to Laurer's family, friends and fans.

As we discussed in an earlier post focused on the Tweet from Stephanie WWE includes, the company is acknowledging more of Chyna's contributions to their on-screen product in these brief messages than they have in years.

It's great that Joanie Laurer's accomplishments will be included in WWE history. It's unfortunate that couldn't have been the case while she was alive, regardless of where the responsibility is placed for their rift.