In sad news, it was revealed overnight that Melissa Coates, also known as the Super Genie, had passed away. In recent times Coates was seen managing the infamous Sabu as Super Genie, a role she has occupied since 2014. But before becoming the manager of Sabu, Coates was an in-ring performer who competed in the squared circle for 13 years.
Like many professional wrestlers of her era, Melissa Coates trained in other disciplines. Originally she wanted to be a professional Tennis player, as part of her Tennis training she took up bodybuilding and eventually transitioned to competing as a bodybuilder in competitions until the late 1990s. She then moved from bodybuilding to modeling, giving her a great mix of background to pursue a professional wrestling career.
Coates initially trained to wrestle under Killer Kowalski, who also trained notable women’s wrestlers like Chyna. She retrained with Ohio Valley Wrestling when it operated as WWE’s developmental territory, eventually becoming an official trainee with the company following an appearance at Backlash 2005.
Despite leaving WWE altogether Coates continued to work with OVW, and later Deep South Wrestling (DSW) in a variety of roles. Most of the gimmicks she had at the time were based around her being the muscular enforcer to a heel, although DSW let her spread her wings and play The Bag Lady, a supposedly homeless woman who was the love interest of The Freakin Deacon (now known as Doc Gallows).
Following her time with OVW and DSW Coates worked the independent scene, primarily for places like NWA Anarchy, Women’s Superstars Uncensored (WSU), and the Funkin Conservatory. Coates’ in-ring career all but ended after 2014 when she became the manager of Sabu and adopted the Super Genie moniker.
In late 2020 Coates had to have her left leg amputated following the discovery of life-threatening blood clots in her leg. Despite such a huge life-changing event, Coates had recently remarked on her Facebook that she was beginning to feel like herself again. Unfortunately, on June 23 2021 it was announced that Melissa Coates had passed away just days after her 50th birthday.
The wrestling world has been quick to send out support and loving messages for Coates who is regarded highly as a kind figure in the world of wrestling. We at Last Word On Pro Sports send our condolences to the family and friends of Melissa “Super Genie” Coates.
I had my very first match against Melissa Coates. There’s always a forever connection when you share the ring with someone and I’m honored to have that with her. Thank you for being so sweet, helpful and busting my brace face open. I’ll truly never forget you. ❤️🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/wi33PmoyaD
— Bayley (@itsBayleyWWE) June 24, 2021
R.I.P to the LEGEND, Melissa Coates. Always the sweetest. So beautiful. Rest well Angel. 🥺💔 pic.twitter.com/Ltxt99ajXP
— jamie senegal (@itsjamiewtf) June 24, 2021
So extremely sad to hear of the passing of Melissa Coates. I have known her for years and years, she was such a sweet, wonderful and thoughtful woman. RIP Super Genie 🙏🏼❤️
— Lauren/Angelina Love (@ActualALove) June 24, 2021
Thinking about Melissa Coates today. I am sad to hear of her passing. Melissa was always so kind to everyone she met and had a huge heart. She said that this was her favorite picture of herself. You are loved and remembered, Melissa. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/7JyNRx9cqi
— Nattie (@NatbyNature) June 24, 2021
Melissa Coates was always so kind and friendly every single time I got to see her or work with her at a show. Such a fun, kind energy to have around. She will be dearly missed 💙
— Leva Bates (@wrestlingleva) June 24, 2021
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