Christopher Klucsaritis (January 4, 1970 – April 2, 2010)

Former WCW and WWE wrestler Chris Kanyon is dead at age 40. Kanyon whose real name is Chris Klucsaritis was found in his Queen’s New York apartment. Kanyon had publicly talked about his ongoing battle with bi-polar disorder and according to reports is believed to have killed himself with an overdose of pills.

Many of his former colleagues expressed their condolences via Twitter today, here is a small sampling:

Matt Hardy: Kanyon was always really cool to me.. Hate to hear the sad news. My best goes out to his family & loved one.
Torrie Wilson: My bud Chris Kanyon died & my heart breaks for him. He was a good guy w/a big heart. so tired of my friends dyin like this. RIP cluster.
Billy Kidman: Saddened by the loss of my best friend…I’ve known him for almost 15yrs & we’ve been there for one another through thick & thin, we’ve both had demons & dealt with them together, and I love him like a brother…RIP Chris I will forever & always miss & love you & cherish the time.
Becky Bayless: RIP Chris Kanyon. I’ll always respect you for having the courage to be yourself in a world that doesn’t always encourage that.

The WWE is supposedly looking for non-wrestling programs to air as well as their extensive library of professional wrestling footage which includes WWWF, WWF, AWA, WCW and NWA libraries. There is no word at this time on what specific types of non-wrestling programming they are considering.

Maria Kanellis Lands gig With King of the Cage

Ex-WWE Diva Maria Kanellis has quickly landed a new job following her release by the WWE.

Kanellis has reportedly been hired as a MMA announcer for HDNET.

Her debut is expected to be on March 26 at the King of the Cage show in Reno, Nevada.

“I don’t think we’re necessarily going to win that night (ratings-wise), but I do feel we’re best equipped going into battle with the product as it is right now,” said Brian Diamond, the senior vice president of sports/specials at Spike. “We’re all feeling very excited and confident about taking a shot and throwing our hat in the ring.”

“We want to take a real close look at what worked and what didn’t,” Diamond said of next Monday’s show. “The good news is we’re taking this plunge. It could open the door for a lot more opportunities for TNA on Spike.”

There is much more at the link, check it out.