Former WWE Superstar Melissa Coates Dies at 50

Former Canadian professional wrestler Melissa Coates has died just months after she had a life-saving leg amputation. Tributes from fellow wrestlers poured in.

Former WWE superstar Melissa Coates recently died at the age of 50 years. Impact Wrestling took to Twitter to announce her passing.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Melissa Coates – better known to IMPACT fans Super Genie, the manager of Sabu. We offer our heartfelt condolences to her friends and family," the company tweeted on June 24.

No cause of death of the former bodybuilder and fitness model has been revealed. Coates' dear friend broke the news on Facebook writing:

"This may be the hardest post I have ever made… I just got word from Terry 'Sabu' Brunk that Super Genie Melissa Coates has passed away.

Sabu then retweeted a post referencing Coates’ death. That was followed by Cauliflower Alley Club – the non-profit corporation that looks after former full-time wrestlers – also confirming the news.

They sent out their sincerest condolences to Coates' family friends and her fans. "May they find comfort in the memories left behind during this most difficult time," the organization wrote.

In October 2020, the family created a GoFundMe page for Coates after having her leg amputated. Blood clots completely obstructed the arteries supplying food to her left lower leg.

Following the news of her passing, fellow wrestlers have paid tribute to her, including SmackDown star Bayley who took to social media recalling that she had her first match with Coates. She said she had a connection with her and is honored to have it.

More tributes poured in from the WWE world as they mourn Coates. Mick Foley said she was always kind on the numerous occasions that he saw her.

Lance Storm, who shared he did not know her all too well, described Coates as super nice and friendly while Beth Phoenix wrote that she was a funny, kind, gentle soul.

Natalya said the now-late actress was always kind to everyone she met and had a huge heart, “you are loved and remembered Melissa,” she wrote.

Coates made an appearance at WWE PPV Backlash in 2005 before wrestling in the developmental territory of WWE. After her departure in 2007, she wrestled in the independent circuit for the majority of her career.