The athlete, born Joan Laurer, became one of the first female superstars of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) after she joined in 1997. She was found dead at a property in Redondo Beach, California on Wednesday evening (20Apr16).

Joan and Triple H, real name Paul Levesque, dated from 1996 to 2000, and he is now saluting his ex as a trailblazer.

"Someone who wasn't afraid to blaze her own trail & create a path for those who would follow," Triple H tweeted. "A pioneer whose star shined bright. #RIPChyna".

Chyna's passing was confirmed on her Twitter.com page, but a cause of death has yet to be determined. Redondo Beach police are currently investigating her death.