Daffney Unger, real name Shannon Spruill, best known for her time in WCW and TNA has passed away aged 46.
Friends and family became increasingly concerned for the star after distressing footage emerged on social media on September 1st. It was later reported that police had been dispatched to a number of addresses known to be used by the former WCW star.
On September 2nd SHIMMER Wrestling confirmed the news of Daffney’s passing at the request of her family.
"We are very sad to have to announce the passing of Shannon Spruill aka Daffney Unger @screamqueendaff. We are posting this at the request of her family. Please respect their privacy at this trying time.
I will miss you my logical sister from another mister."
-Lexie Fyfe— SHIMMER Wrestling (@SHIMMERwomen) September 2, 2021
Daffney first came to national attention in 1999 when she signed with WCW. In the months that followed appearing alongside David Flair and Crowbar, the act’s popularity quickly grew. In the year 2000, Daffney became only the 2nd woman to hold the Cruiserweight Championship.
The star left WCW just prior to the company’s purchase by WWE in 2001, going on to appear with numerous independent promotions. During this period she briefly signed with WWE under a developmental contract, before announcing her retirement.
However, Daffney would return to the ring, most famously with TNA in 2008. The star played the character of then Governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin, before going on to challenge for the Knockouts Championship.
Following her second in-ring retirement, Daffney continued to make sporadic appearances across the independent scene with the likes of Shine Wrestling and Ring of Honor.
Everyone at Inside The Ropes would like to send our condolences to Shannon Spruill’s family and friends during this difficult time.
If you, or anyone you know is suffering from a mental health crisis, you can find help and support by contacting the organisations below.
National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK: 0800 689 5652
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, United States: 1-800-273-8255
The Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1.833.456.4566