Former WWE Superstar Corporal Kirchner (real name Michael James Penze) passed away at the age of 64 on Wednesday. As of this report, the cause of death is unknown.
Kirchner, a former United States Army paratrooper, got his start in professional wrestling in the AWA. He would then join WWE and wrestle under the in-ring name of “RT Reynolds” before they repackaged him with the military gimmick based on his real-life background.
Kirchner also had a brief run in Stampede Wrestling under the in-ring name “Col. Kirchner.”
After leaving Stampede Wrestling, he went to Japan’s W*ING promotion, and created the character “Leatherface” which was inspired by the villain from the The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
Kirchner was announced as a participant in the Gimmick Battle Royal at WrestleMania X-Seven.
From the entire staff at Wrestleview, we send our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Michael James Penze during this difficult and sad time.