ECW Star Balls Mahoney Passes Away At Age 44
ECW original Balls Mahoney, real name Jonathan Rechner, passed away at his home late Tuesday, April 12. He had just turned 44 years old, his birthday being April 11, 1972.
Chris Candido’s brother Johnny Candido was the initial bearer of this sad news. He was told by a friend who lives near Rechner that there were ambulances and police cars outside Rechner’s home. Upon hearing this news, Candido called his buddy. Rechner’s wife answered the phone and let him know the unfortunate news.
The cause of death is not yet known. Rechner is survived by his 8 year old son, Christopher.
Mahoney was best known for his run in ECW where he signed in 1997 and was known as a “chair swinging freak.” He was with the company until its end in 2001. In 2005, he was part of WWE’s ECW One Night Stand pay-per-view event and then a year later he was signed to WWE’s ECW brand. He was part of WWE until 2008 when he was released.
Below are comments from WWE and many other wrestlers.
WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of ECW Superstar Balls Mahoney. pic.twitter.com/Ox8dnQih6R
— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2016
At a loss for words, love you brother, you'll be missed, rip Balls Mahoney pic.twitter.com/xAFsschzXK
— jonnycandido (@Candido118) April 13, 2016
I am beyond sad to announce my friend ECW Original Balls Mahoney has passed away. I just spoke w/his wife. pic.twitter.com/OAs3vOmGEH
— Tommy Dreamer (@THETOMMYDREAMER) April 13, 2016
Just heard of the passing of ECW original Balls Mahoney. Thinking and praying for his little boy he loved so dearly. pic.twitter.com/ky61l3jyRg
— Mick Foley (@foleyispod) April 13, 2016
R.I.P. Balls Mahoney
— Rob Van Dam (@TherealRVD) April 13, 2016
RIP Balls Mahoney. We ran in different circles, but you were always kind to me and always smiling. Thx for the Stephen King convo’s. #Spork
— Hurricane Helms (@ShaneHelmsCom) April 13, 2016
I'm saddened to learn the the wrestling world has lost another brother. Rest in Peace Balls Mahoney. My thoughts are with his family…..
— Brian Heffron aka The Blue Meanie (@BlueMeanieBWO) April 13, 2016
All of us here at TJRWrestling extend our condolences to the Rechner family.
Picture used above is courtesy of WWE.com.