Joe Doering, a respected name in professional wrestling circles from his time in WWE and TNA, is preparing to transition into hospice care as his health continues to decline. The veteran athlete has faced an extraordinarily difficult journey marked by repeated confrontations with brain cancer, spanning nearly a full decade.
This latest development represents a somber turning point for the former competitor and those closest to him.
Mandy Banh, Doering’s sister-in-law, recently shared an update highlighting the gravity of his current situation. The announcement comes amid ongoing medical challenges that have tested the limits of his strength and that of his family. Supporters have rallied around the wrestler through various channels, seeking to ease the burdens that accompany prolonged treatment.
A GoFundMe campaign launched by Banh provides deeper insight into the family’s experiences. The page details how Doering is now facing his third brain tumor while approaching a significant milestone in his fight against the disease.
“Hi, my name is Mandy, and as my brother in-law approaches 10 years of battling Brain Cancer, he finds himself in the midst of battling a third brain tumor. Joe has underwent radiation & his first round of chemotherapy- to continue for at least 5 more months. Joe and my sister have put so much determination and resilience into Joe’s fight over the past 10 years I was hoping to help alleviate some financial worries that naturally come along with medical bills combined with my sister needing to take some time off work to accommodate Joe’s multiple medical and rehabilitation appointments,” the note said.
Following his most recent major surgery in 2022 on the brain stem, Doering encountered significant physical setbacks. These complications have reshaped his everyday existence in profound ways, shifting him from the high-energy demands of a wrestling career to a focus on basic mobility and recovery.
“After Joe’s last brain surgery in 2022, located on his brain stem, he developed ataxia on his right side, which has greatly impacted his mobility. Joe works very hard with physiotherapy, however, he mostly uses his wheelchair in his day-to-day life, requiring assistance when using stairs, a walker, and any transitioning. This has been a great change, as one would imagine, from being a professional sports athlete,” it further read.
The family’s fundraising effort has seen encouraging early support from the wrestling community and beyond. As of the latest figures, the GoFundMe page has collected approximately $19,000 CAD toward its $24,000 CAD target, offering some relief for mounting expenses related to care and lost income.
Recent medical updates paint a challenging picture of disease progression. Doering’s brain tumor has shown signs of growth, prompting doctors to pause chemotherapy and introduce steroids to help manage symptoms. This adjustment follows an already grueling regimen that included radiation and initial rounds of treatment.
Doering first stepped away from active competition in 2022 during his TNA tenure after his cancer returned, requiring urgent surgical intervention. The news of a third tumor emerged in December 2025, underscoring the relentless nature of his decade-long health struggle.
Before making his mark in TNA, Doering had a short stint with WWE in 2010. His career, though interrupted by illness, left an impression on fans who admired his work ethic and presence inside the ring. Many in the industry continue to express admiration for his perseverance through adversity.
As Doering moves toward hospice, the wrestling world reflects on the toll that serious illness can take on athletes who once thrived on physical excellence. His story highlights not only the fragility of health but also the enduring spirit of those who refuse to yield easily, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Continued support for his family remains a priority during this difficult transition.
