Virgil (Michael Jones)

Michael Jones, known to wrestling fans as Virgil, was an American professional wrestler and actor. He achieved his greatest fame during an eight-year run in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) as the flamboyant personal assistant to the villainous "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. Following his departure from the WWF, he competed for several years in other promotions, including World Championship Wrestling (WCW), using various ring names.

Virgil continued wrestling sporadically until the 2020s, remaining a popular figure among fans for his charisma and signature "Million Dollar Smile." Virgil, unfortunately, passed away on February 28, 2024, at the age of 72.

Also Read: What is the net worth of Ted DiBiase in 2024?

Virgil Early Life

Michael Jones, born in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, was raised alongside two older brothers, Warren Jr. and Donald, and a sister, Toni. His athletic pursuits began at Virginia Union University, where he honed his skills on the college football team as a defensive back and actively participated in amateur wrestling.

Following his collegiate career, Jones ventured into the world of work at his uncle's loading and moving company. While dedicating himself to physical fitness through bodybuilding, a pivotal moment in his life unfolded at a Pittsburgh gym. There, he encountered Tony Atlas, a respected figure in the wrestling industry, who identified Jones' potential and recommended him for professional wrestling in 1985. Embracing this opportunity, Jones embarked on a training journey under the tutelage of Afa, a member of the renowned Wild Samoans.

Virgil Professional Wrestling Career

Early Years

Michael Jones' professional wrestling career began in 1985 under the name "Soul Train Jones" in the Championship Wrestling Association. He quickly rose to prominence, winning the AWA International Heavyweight Championship in 1987. Though his reign was short-lived, he also showcased his skills in a tournament and tag team wrestling, briefly holding the AWA Southern Tag Team Championship with Rocky Johnson.

WWF (1986-1995)

Following his success in the Championship Wrestling Association, Jones entered the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1986 under the name "Lucius Brown." However, his debut match resulted in a loss against "Mr. Wonderful" Paul Orndorff. He later re-emerged in 1987, assuming the iconic role of "Virgil," the loyal bodyguard of the flamboyant "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. Virgil's primary role involved carrying DiBiase's money and often absorbing punishment while DiBiase strategically escaped. Despite being a secondary character, Virgil played a crucial role in major WWF storylines throughout 1988. He notably assisted DiBiase and Andre the Giant in several high-profile events, including the controversial "Main Event" special where Hulk Hogan lost his title, the WrestleMania IV tournament, and the inaugural SummerSlam main event.

Virgil's role in the WWF evolved throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. While initially serving as DiBiase's gatekeeper, often facing his rivals before DiBiase himself, Virgil endured constant humiliation. This culminated in a dramatic turn in 1991, where he rebelled against DiBiase, becoming a fan favorite. With Roddy Piper as his ally, Virgil defeated DiBiase at WrestleMania VII and SummerSlam, briefly claiming the controversial Million Dollar Championship before ultimately losing it back to DiBiase with outside interference. Virgil continued to participate in major events but faced disqualification at Survivor Series 1991 alongside his team and suffered a loss at This Tuesday in Texas with Tito Santana.

After venturing solo in 1992, Virgil donned his signature red candy-striped tights and embarked on a singles career. He participated in significant events like the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania VIII, even securing a title shot against Bret Hart for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship, though ultimately unsuccessful. While maintaining a presence throughout 1993 in undercard matches, Virgil's spotlight gradually dimmed. His final WWF pay-per-view appearance was in the 1994 Royal Rumble, followed by a notable feud against a returning Nikolai Volkoff. This feud inadvertently led to the formation of Ted DiBiase's Million Dollar Corporation stable. Virgil left the WWF in August 1994, briefly returning for a few matches in 1995 before departing once again.

National Wrestling Conference (1995)

In a highly controversial 1995 wrestling match, Virgil's opponent donned a KKK hood, and another wrestler, Jim Neidhart, used the robe in a simulated hanging. Security intervened, condemning the racist act and removing Neidhart. This incident sparked outrage for its offensive nature.

WCW (1996-2000)

Following his WWF stint, Jones joined WCW in 1996 under the name "Vincent," initially finding success as part of the nWo alongside Ted DiBiase. He primarily served as security and often faced the brunt of attacks while other members escaped. After DiBiase's departure, Vincent accompanied other nWo members and participated in various tag teams and matches, including the 1997 World War 3 battle royal. He remained loyal to the original nWo during its split and subsequent reformation, even changing his name to "Vince" and attempting to lead a sub-faction called the nWo B-Team.

Despite his efforts, Vince lost leadership battles to Stevie Ray and eventually became the sole remaining member of the original nWo before the faction officially dissolved in 1999. He never rejoined future iterations of the nWo. Following the nWo's dissolution, Jones adopted various personas in WCW, including Curly Bill with the West Texas Rednecks and Shane, a bodyguard, for Vince Russo and the Harris Brothers. He also briefly managed Ernest "The Cat" Miller before ultimately departing WCW in 2000 and retiring from wrestling shortly before the company folded.

WWE (2010)

Virgil briefly returned to WWE in 2010, reuniting with Ted DiBiase Jr. as his bodyguard, mimicking his past role with DiBiase Sr. However, the collaboration was short-lived. After losing a tag team match, DiBiase disrespected Virgil by stuffing money in his mouth and ultimately firing him, replacing him with Maryse.

AEW (2019-2020)

Virgil, under his original name "Soul Train Jones," made a brief comeback in AEW from 2019 to 2020. He primarily supported Chris Jericho and The Inner Circle, even garnering praise for a promo comparing Jericho's talents to unlimited breadsticks. His appearances included introducing Jericho for a celebration and participating in a segment during the group's "Bubbly Bunch" segment.

Virgil Net Worth

Virgil (Michael Jones) was worth between $500,000 to $1 Million.

Award and Achievements