RIP: The Fantastics' Tommy Rogers

WCM sadly reports the passing of another major star of World Class Championship Wrestling: Thomas Couch, better known as Tommy Rogers of the Fantastics, who was found unresponsive in his Honolulu apartment early this morning by his roommate. Although EMTs were called to the scene, they were unable to revive Rogers.

Rogers, who was 54, had reportedly been involved in some altercations in recent years, which resulted in legal issues. Although this has not been confirmed, Wrestling Observer editor Dave Meltzer's report strongly suggests that Rogers may in fact have taken his own life, stating that Tommy "was scheduled for a court date tomorrow over a fight with police officers and feared a long prison stay".

Rogers' former partner Bobby Fulton posted on Facebook today: "I was wanting to wait until all of the family has been notified. My wrestling tag team partner Tommy Rogers passed away this morning in Hawaii. I am totally devastated by this loss. Words can't even describe it. Tommy blessed me with an opportunity to be a part of one of the great tag teams of professional wrestling. He was one of the best athletes in the profession. My prayers are for Sheila and the rest of the Couch family. Not only was he a partner he was like a brother we travelled many miles and many different places. I know in fact with his belief in Jesus which he shared with me many times recently and I know he has heaven as his home, because the Bible teaches us to be absent of the body is to be present with The Lord."

Kevin Von Erich, who moved with his family to Hawaii shortly after Rogers did, tweeted this afternoon: "God Bless Tommy Rogers, passed away a few hours ago. Rest in peace my friend." The two had reportedly visited each other a number of times since relocating to the islands; WCCW fans will also recall that it was Rogers who administered CPR after Kevin passed out in the ring during a May 1987 eight-man tag bout in Fort Worth.

Our sincerest condolences go out to all of the family, friends and colleagues of Tommy Rogers. May he rest in peace.

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