Tragic WWE star Ashley Massaro’s brain will be donated to medical science after string of head injuries in the ring before her death, aged 39
FORMER WWE star Ashley Massaro’s brain may be donated to science to research conditions associated with head injuries after she suffered concussions in the ring, her lawyer said.
Konstantine Kyros said the Playboy model was among 60 wrestlers who sued WWE in 2016, claiming the firm was responsible for neurological injuries suffered in the ring.
Mr Kyros told The Post on Saturday Ashley suffered multiple concussions during her career and said that is why her brain needs to be examined now.
He said: “It was Ashley’s wishes to donate her brain.”
A federal judge in Connecticut dismissed the suit, but it is pending appeal and the next court date is July 8.
The 39-year-old took her own life after responding to fan letters, it was reported.
The stunning wrestler and Playboy model, who also competed on Survivor, died in hospital on Thursday.
Her pal Shelly Martinez confirmed she had taken her own life.
She told The Blast in a statement: “My best friend from the wrestling business died from suicide two days after responding to 300+ fan letters.
“She was the happiest I have seen her in years, so stoked that people still cared about her 11 years after her career was over. There are no signs. It comes without warning.”
Ashley’s last tweet on Wednesday was a snap of her fan letters and she wrote: “Just answered a ton of fanmail so you guys should be receiving them soon! Love ya punx.”
Officials responded to a “rescue call” and reports of an unconscious female at her home in Suffolk County, New York, at 5.23am on Thursday, according to The Blast.
Ashley was administered CPR on the way to the hospital, but was later pronounced dead.
Reports suggest cops believe there was no foul play and they are classifying the death as “non-criminal”.
She had been open about her depression and mental health battle.
Ashley famously won the WWE’s 2005 Raw Diva Search – which included a $250,000 (£195,000) one-year contract.
She went on to become a valet for WWE tag team champions Paul London and Brian Kendrick.
Her most high-profile matches include a WWE Women’s Championship against Melina at WrestleMania 23 in 2007.
Ashley also competed in a Playboy BunnyMania LumberJill match at WrestleMania 24 the following year.
She appeared on Survivor: China in 2007 – but she was voted off on the second episode of that series.
Ashley also appeared on the April 2007 cover of Playboy Magazine.
“We are saddened to learn of the tragic death of former WWE Superstar Ashley Massaro,” WWE said in a statement.
“She performed in WWE from 2005-2008 and was beloved by her fellow Superstars and fans around the world. WWE offers its condolences to Ashley’s family and friends.”
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She is survived by her teenage daughter Alexis, who turns 19 in June, and recently said she was looking forward to her own big 40th birthday next Sunday.
In a chilling Instagram post shared on January 5, Massaro spoke about death.
She wrote: “Those who died yesterday had plans for this morning. And those who died this morning had plans for tonight.
“Don’t take life for granted. In the blink of an eye, everything can change. So forgive often and love with all your heart. You may never get to have that chance again.”
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems the Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123, or visit Mind’s website.