World Wrestler Passed Away

Brian Knighton, formed a tag team, The Bad Breed, with his fictional brother Ian Rotten (real name John Williams).

Brian Knighton, the wrestler was found dead on Thursday night in his car outside a McDonald's in Baltimore, Maryland, Pro Wrestling Sheet reported.

World Wrestling Entertainment star Axl Rotten thrilled fans in the 1990s with dramatic bouts featuring flaming furniture, barbed wire and broken glass died, aged 44.

His mother, Maria Leydig, told the publication an overdose was suspected, adding: "Brian lost his battle with his demon."

The Baltimore-based star's former wrestling network paid tribute to him.

"WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Brian Knighton, best known for competing in ECW as Axl Rotten from 1993 to 1999, has passed away," read a statement.

"WWE extends its condolences to Knighton's family, friends and fans."

Knighton - whose ring name was inspired by the rockers Johnny Rotten and Axl Rose - burst on to the independent wrestling circuit in the late 1980s.

The 6ft 1in, 310lb (140kg) hulk moved in 1991 to World Championship Wrestling before joining rival promoter Extreme Championship Wrestling from 1993-99.