WWE star Lance Cade dead at 29

Lance McNaught, better known to wrestling fans as Lance Cade, has died of apparent heart failure at the age of 29.

The WWE, who discontinued Lance Cade’s contract in April, confirmed the wrestler’s death in a statement on their website today:

“World Wrestling Entertainment was informed Friday morning by Lance McNaught’s father that he has passed away of apparent heart failure. WWE extends its deepest condolences to the McNaught family. Mr. McNaught was under contract beginning March 2003, performing under the name ‘Lance Cade,’ and was released October 2008. He returned to FCW, WWE’s developmental territory, in September 2009, and was released in April 2010.”

Cade’s initial release from WWE in 2008 was due to an incident on a plane, and his second release last April is said to be related to an addiction to sleeping pills. Some of his WWE compatriots have commented on the wrestler’s passing and offered their condolences. Cade’s mentor Shawn Michaels tweeted:

“My prayers and thoughts have already been given to his family and will continue. Goodbye Lance I love you.”

Mick Foley commented:

“I am very sorry to hear about the passing of Lance Cade. Only 29 — I had no idea he was so young. My thoughts go out to his family.”

No information has been made available about funeral or memorial services for the wrestler.