Chyna | Alcohol & Polydrug Overdose Death

The wrestler Chyna was known as “one of the best female wrestlers.” Not only was she the first woman to participate in the Royal Rumble, she also accomplished numerous feats as a pro wrestler. 

Sadly, Chyna passed away from an accidental overdose caused by alcohol and polydrug use.

How Chyna Died

The former WWE superstar Chyna was found in her Redondo Beach, California, home on April 20, 2016, after her manager Anthony Anzaldo became alarmed when he noticed that Chyna hadn’t updated her social media accounts in several days.

According to the Los Angeles County Coroner’s autopsy report, Chyna’s death was caused by alcohol and polydrug use. In fact, various substances were found in her system.

The official cause of death was ruled an accidental overdose. Chyna was found with a mix of alcohol and prescription medications, including the benzodiazepines diazepam (Valium) temazepam (Restoril) as well as the painkillers oxymorphone and oxycodone.

About Chyna

Chyna (real name Joan Marie Laurer) was born on December 27, 1969, in Rochester, New York. At an early age, Chyna struggled with an eating disorder and struggled with family issues.

After graduating from the University of Tampa in 1993, she joined the Peace Corps. In 1996, Chyna met the wrestlers Shawn Michaels and Triple H who decided to help with her wrestling career.

Wrestling Career

Chyna first became part of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) as a bodyguard. Her professional wrestling career began with D-Generation X. During this time, Chyna was entered into the eponymous match at the Royal Rumble, becoming the first woman to do so.

She later participated in the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre pay-per-view event. Throughout her career, she achieved various accomplishments.

Accolades & Endeavors

Chyna won the IWF Women’s Championship and became the women’s champion of the WWF. She joined fellow wrestling superstar Eddie Guerrero in an on-screen relationship. However, the two wrestling stars soon ended their relationship.

According to NBC, Chyna became known as “The Ninth Wonder of the World” in 1997 due to her role in the WWF, which would later be known as the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).

The WWE wrestler was featured in the November 2000 issue of Playboy. Chyna released an adult film in 2004, but gained popularity in television, starring in various tv shows such as “The Surreal Life” and “Fear Factor.”

Chyna won the Intercontinental Championship during her career. The WWE star’s success continued after her death when she was entered into the WWE Hall of Fame posthumously.

Chyna’s History Of Substance Abuse

Chyna has a long history of alcohol and drug abuse. At the age of 16, the wrestling star’s mother attempted to force her into a treatment center. Chyna refused, leaving home to live with her biological father.

During the time of Chyna’s sex tape, she admitted to struggling with prescription drug and alcohol addiction. Chyna also suffered from mental illness.

She was taken to the emergency room in December 2008 after her birthday party when she was found unconscious with cuts on her arms. In September 2010, Chyna overdosed on sleeping pills, but was taken to the hospital and survived.

Did Chyna Attend Addiction Treatment?

During her appearance on “The Howard Stern Show,” Chyna stated she did not want to continue abusing drugs. After the interview, she received treatment at a rehab center.

Chyna spoke vocally about her struggles with mental illness and drug addiction. She also appeared on an episode of “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew” in which she refused to label herself as an “addict.”

Recovery Is Possible

Chyna’s death serves as a reminder of the importance of receiving addiction treatment and seeking help when you or someone you love struggle with drug addiction or mental health issues.

Remember that recovery is possible when you build the tools and skills needed for ongoing sobriety. To learn how we can help you or your loved one achieve lasting recovery, please contact us today.