Former Ring of Honor Champion Passes Away at the Age of 42

Former Ring of Honor Champion John ‘Xavier’ Bedoya passed away at the age of 42, as reported by PWInsider.com. The American Professional wrestler was reportedly in contact with his family at the time of his sudden demise.

The underlying details regarding his passing remain largely unknown to the pro-wrestling community who mourn the loss on the independent scene star.

Bedoya’s family went on to provide confirmation of the news to friends of the former ICW AND USA Pro-wrestling heel. Chiefly, his notoriety within the pro wrestling sphere came through his stint as the 2 Ring of Honor Champion who dethroned the sitting champion after a 56-day reign.

John ‘Xavier’ Bedoya: A look back at the Ring of Honor Icon

The New York native carved a niche for himself and created the foundation of the despicable heel who always wrangled out a victory. Moreover, he is credited with being a pioneer for Ring of Honor alongside Low Ki and ‘The Amazing Red’.

Not to mention he displayed a great range to his character arcs as he pulled out the emphatic victory from the cusp of defeat.

Additionally, John ‘Xavier’ showcased a great sense of versatility in his come-up during the 2000s’. He is credited with having 3 amateur MMA bouts going 1-2 from 2009 to 2015.

However, his true passion was always in the ring and his ROH run sticks out for cementing his legacy in the New York Circuit.

John Bedoya successfully defended his title against the likes of AJ Styles, Jay Briscoe, and Paul London during his heyday. He lost the strap to Samoa Joe in what remains an all-time classic.

Following his ROH title defeat, the charismatic wrestler decided to step away but soon returned to the organization.

Chiefly, his aforementioned versatility extended to stints in the WWF/WWE where he made regular appearances. However, he was never signed to the organization and instead came in on a requirement basis.

Additionally, he never competed under his established moniker so that he didn’t lose under the brand name he built up.

His loss comes, unfortunately, just as he planned on making a return to ROH before COVID-19 canceled the event. Fans who have followed his rise, remember the Queens native for his ability to put on a show. And will make sure that he is remembered for the same.