Tears for a Clown: WWE’s Original Doink the Clown Matt Osborne has Passed Away

By Nolan P. Smith-Pastrami Nation

It is with deep regret that we report that Matt Osborne, the original Doink the Clown in the WWF, has passed away.

Doink went on to be one of the most recognized characters in the WWF/WWE history, and is still known to fans today. As a fan of the WWF/WWE for all my life, I remember the memorable moments with Doink, and it really is a sad day. Our prayers go out to all of Osborne’s family and friends during this extremely difficult time. Here is the statement from the WWE:

Reports indicate that Matt Osborne, aka the original Doink the Clown, has passed away. A rugged brawler in promotions like Mid-South Wrestling and World Championship Wrestling, Osborne made a major impact in WWE under the greasepaint of a prankster named Doink — one of the most enduring personas of the early ’90s.

WWE is saddened by the news of Osborne’s passing. Our deepest condolences go out to Osborne’s family, friends and fans.

Check out a photo retrospective of Doink’s career at the WWE website HERE.