Sima Zhao
In 260, Cao Mao was again forced to issue an edict granting Sima Zhao the title of Duke of Jin and the nine bestowments; which Sima Zhao earnestly declined nine times, and after being forced to do so again, he declined them yet another time, which only managed to irritate Cao Mao further. Cao Mao gathered his associates Wang Shen, Wang Jing and Wang Ye, and announced his plan for a last effort against Sima Zhao to regain his power. Wang Shen and Wang Ye went to warn Sima Zhao. Personally armed with a sword, Cao Mao led his personal guard to go from the palace to attack Sima Zhao. Sima Zhao's brother, Sima Zhou, led a defence at a gate but was routed. Jia Chong led another defense at the southern watchtower and ordered his officer Cheng Ji to kill Cao Mao. Cheng Ji stabbed Cao Mao in the chest with a spear, killing him.