Former TNA and All Japan Pro Wrestling star Joe Doering has passed away at age 44 after a long fight with brain cancer. The wrestling community is mourning the loss of the beloved athlete who inspired fans with his strength inside and outside the ring.
Doering died peacefully on June 26, 2026, at 9:13 a.m., surrounded by his family. He had been battling brain cancer for nearly 10 years, facing the disease with remarkable courage. His sister-in-law, Mandy Banh, confirmed his passing through a verified GoFundMe page set up to support his treatment.
Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling first announced the sad news on social media, sharing a tribute to the wrestling star. Doering is survived by his wife, Lindsay, along with his family and countless friends.
He Fought Three Brain Tumors Over a Decade
Doering’s health struggles began in February 2016 when doctors found his first brain tumor. He underwent surgery to remove it and returned to wrestling in 2017. But the cancer came back in August 2022, forcing another operation that ended his career.
The second surgery left Doering with a condition called ataxia, which affected the voluntary coordination of his muscles on his right side. This greatly impacted his mobility, and he started using a wheelchair and walker in his daily life. Despite these challenges, his family said he remained determined and stayed in good spirits throughout his treatment.
In November 2025, Doering was diagnosed with a third brain tumor. In May 2026, his condition worsened, and CT scans showed the tumor was growing. Doctors stopped his chemotherapy and put him on steroids instead. Earlier this week, on June 22, his family shared that he was heading to hospice care.
TNA and Wrestling Promotions Pay Tribute
Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, where Doering had multiple runs, expressed their grief in a statement.
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Joe Doering. A commanding in-ring performer and a wonderful person, he will never be forgotten. We offer our deepest condolences to his fans, his friends and his family.”
All Japan Pro Wrestling also paid tribute to the star who achieved great success in their promotion. The company said all players and staff expressed their condolences and sincerely prayed for his eternal peace.
AEW, one of the biggest wrestling promotions in the world, also honored Doering with a statement.
“AEW and the wrestling world mourn the passing of Joe Doering. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and fans during this difficult time.”
Fellow Wrestlers Share Their Memories
Many wrestlers who shared the ring with Doering spoke about their experiences with him.
Josh Alexander, who faced Doering in his final match at Against All Odds in July 2022, shared a touching reflection online. He said he noticed something was off with Doering before the match but didn’t realize his cancer had returned. Alexander recalled Doering agreeing to a tough physical match despite his condition.
“We had a 20+ main event title match on ppv. I can’t imagine the pain or discomfort he was feeling at the time. But in true Joe fashion he was an absolute warrior. He fought cancer for so long. I can only hope that now he can finally rest.”
Sami Callihan remembered Doering as a kind person who treated everyone like family.
“Joe was a throwback to a different era. He was funny, exuded respect, and was everyone’s big brother that he connected with. I will forever cherish the time I got to spend around him.”
Adam Pearce, a retired WWE wrestler, shared his thoughts on social media.
“Godspeed, Joe Doering. I didn’t have the good fortune of being around you, but things my friends have said make me wish I had. My heart goes out to his friends, family, and everyone affected. Rest well, sir.”
Doering’s Impressive Wrestling Career
Joe Doering started his wrestling journey in 2004, making his debut for Border City Wrestling in Canada. He quickly made a name for himself and moved to bigger promotions.
In All Japan Pro Wrestling, Doering became one of the company’s top stars. He won the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship twice, one of the most prestigious titles in Japanese wrestling. He also captured the World Tag Team Championship four times with different partners, including legends like Keiji Mutoh.
Doering had multiple stints with TNA/Impact Wrestling from 2005 to 2022. His most memorable run came in 2021 when he joined the Violent By Design faction with Eric Young and Cody Deaner. The group won the Impact World Tag Team Championship twice under the Freebird Rule.
Doering also had a brief time in WWE’s developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling, in 2010 under the ring name Drake Brewer. He wrestled his final match against Josh Alexander for the TNA World Championship in July 2022.
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Fans Show Love and Support
Wrestling fans have flooded social media with tributes to Doering.
“Rest in peace, Joe Doering. A absolute monster in the ring, 2x AJPW Triple Crown Champion, tag titles with legends like Muta and Suwama. Battled brain cancer for a decade like a true warrior and never stopped fighting. Gone way too soon at 44,” wrote one fan.
Another person shared, “A great inspiration with my battle with cancer. But a great man and wrestler too. The world lost a warrior! Rest easy Joe!”
A fundraiser set up by Doering’s sister-in-law raised more than $22,000 to help with medical bills and treatment costs. His family thanked everyone for their love, support, and kindness during this difficult time.
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