Another weekend tragedy; ref Tanabe passes away; Misawa cause of death

Although Pro Wrestling NOAH and the family of Mitsuharu Misawa attempted to keep the cause of death quiet, it has been reported in Japan from police reports from talking with hospital workers that the death was caused by a spinal cord injury from the back suplex and not heart problems.

 

Ted Tanabe, one of the best known referees in Japan, passed away on Monday in Japan from a heart attack.

Tanabe suffered a heart attack while officiating in a match on a Sunday show for Osaka Pro Wrestling.  He was rushed to the hospital and passed away the next morning.  He was 46.

Tanabe worked for several independent promotions.  He probably gained his most fame during the heyday of Michinoku Pro Wrestling, where he did part of the comedy Lucha routines.  He also did a heel ref gimmick during his career. 

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