We reported earlier this morning here on eWn that Mike Penzel (Corporal Kirchner in WWE) passed away at the age of 64 due to a heart attack.
WWE issued the following statement on Penzel’s passing:
We are saddened to learn that Michael Penzel, better known as Corporal Kirchner and beloved by fans all over the world, passed away yesterday at the age of 64. Our sincerest thoughts are with his family, friends and those affected by his passing.
After serving as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army, Kirchner would meet Hulk Hogan while working in a gym and begin paving the trail for an incredible career in sports-entertainment. After debuting as RT Reynolds, Penzel began competing as Corporal Kirchner and engaged in a memorable rivalry with Nikolai Volkoff. The battle culminated with a Flag Match victory for Kirchner at WrestleMania 2.
Following his run in WWE, Kirchner would travel the globe competing for Stampede, NJPW, the UWF, W*ING and other promotions. Kirchner would later appear inside the squared circle as Leatherface and capped off his career in 2007.
