Brian McNeil was nicknamed "The Silent One" because of his hearing impairment, but it was not an obstacle to his distinguished athletic career.
During his career, McNeil participated in tournaments around the world, especially in Asia, before retiring from wrestling in the late 1990s.
The sad announcement of the death of the Canadian wrestler "The Silent One" came via the wrestling website Maple Leaf Pro, which was founded by the well-known promoter Scott D'Amore, without mentioning the causes of death in the official statement.
Maple Leaf Pro said in a statement posted on social media: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Brian McKennie, a Maple Leaf Wrestling alumnus and Toronto wrestling legend."
The statement added: "Maknae was not just a passing wrestler, but much more than that. He won the hearts of Toronto fans in the 1970s and 1980s, and gained international fame through his participation in Japan with both New Japan Pro Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling."
The statement added: "When the WWF took over wrestling in Toronto, Brian continued working there with Vince McMahon for several years. It is amazing that Brian McKennie achieved all of this despite being deaf, proving that his hearing impairment never hindered him, but rather he overcame it and achieved what many others could not."
The statement continued: "It was an honor to have McKennie at our event last May at the historic Maple Leaf Gardens, and we cherish his stature and great legacy in the history of Maple Leaf Wrestling. We extend our deepest condolences to Brian McKennie's family, friends, and loyal fans during this difficult time."
It is worth noting that Brian McKennie received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian wrestling federation Great White North Wrestling in 2019, in recognition of his long career and unique achievements both inside and outside the ring.