UPDATE: We reported this afternoon that Matt Osborne, who originally portrayed Doink the Clown on WWE programming in the early-1990’s, was found dead today by his girlfriend. WWE has issued a statement regarding his passing.
“Reports indicate that Matt Osborne, aka the original Doink the Clown, has passed away. A rugged brawler in promotions like Mid-South Wrestling and World Championship Wrestling, Osborne made a major impact in WWE under the greasepaint of a prankster named Doink — one of the most enduring personas of the early ’90s.
“WWE is saddened by the news of Osborne’s passing. Our deepest condolences go out to Osborne’s family, friends and fans.”
The sports-entertainment organization is celebrating Osborne’s time as Doink the Clown, with a a look at his greatest moments as well as a photo retrospective. WWE is also asking fans to share their memories of Doink the Clown on the WWE Classics Facebook page.
ORIGINAL: Matt Osbourne, known to wrestling fans as Matt Borne/the original Doink the Clown, has passed away. He was 56. He had been staying in Texas recently, and was found this morning by his girlfriend. More details as they become available.
On behalf of everyone here on the website, I would like to extend our condolences to the family, friend and fans of Mr. Osbourne.
