NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. - Mike "Mad Dog" Bell, a former professional wrestler whose struggle with substance abuse was featured in the documentary "Bigger, Stronger, Faster," has died. He was 37.
Bell was found Sunday at a Costa Mesa live-in rehabilitation facility, his family said.
An autopsy was conducted but investigators couldn't immediately determine the cause of death, said Dan Akin, a supervising deputy at the Orange County coroner's division. The coroner is awaiting the results of toxicology tests, he said.
Chris Bell, whose 2008 documentary examines the steroid use of his two brothers, said Mike Bell had long battled with his addictions to prescription painkillers and alcohol.
Mike Bell wrestled on World Wrestling Entertainment's "Monday Night Raw" as a "jobber," a fighter who takes falls to promote others.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
I inew a lot qboutt your father but so kuch about you. I worked for the Diamondbacks in concessions for 10 years. When I heard you were our bench coach I did my research and I was glad you were part of out family. Thank you for all you did for us. It wasnt long enough but we will cherish the time we knew you. My condolences to the family
Curtis Givens
March 31, 2021 | Phoenix Via Minneapolis, AZ
Valenda Newell
January 21, 2017 | Indianapolis, IN
Rip Mike. Gone but never forgotten. God bless you my friend.
brad newman
June 15, 2016
I had watched the first doc "Bigger, Stronger, Faster" and have told so many people about it. I just watched your brothers new doc "Prescription Thugs" and was really just unprepared to hear that you had passed away. I was really shaken by it. I pray for peace for your family and friends.
Jeremy Brister
May 01, 2016 | Denham Springs, LA
Rip Mike
John Esposito
March 10, 2016 | Paris
Just thinking of you big man!
Mike Clements
February 09, 2016
Sleep in peace mike bell
rocky miavia
September 30, 2015 | Brooklyn, NY
God bless mike, few people live with his determination and drive. As a recovering alcoholic, I understand his struggles. See you in heaven bro.
Ben Deleon
January 17, 2015 | San Antonio, TX
Mike and me met at a bachelor party, he was such a blast! We went out for a couple dinners and beach walks, he was so interesting! I miss his bleach blond triangle above his baby carrot, he was so California. Hang ten Mike, hang ten.
Shelly Boucheir
June 04, 2014 | Los Angeles, CA