Tag: Steve “Mongo” McMichael

AEW to Honor Steve “Mongo” McMichael at Beach Break with Ric Flair in Attendance

AEW is set to pay tribute to the late Steve “Mongo” McMichael during the upcoming AEW Collision: Beach Break special, and the occasion will be made even more meaningful with the presence of McMichael’s longtime friend and fellow Four Horsemen legend, Ric Flair.

McMichael, who passed away in April at the age of 67 following a lengthy battle with ALS, left a lasting impact both on the football field and in the world of pro wrestling. AEW confirmed during this week’s Collision that a special tribute segment will air as part of next Saturday’s Beach Break broadcast, which will take place in McMichael’s hometown of Chicago.

Flair, who wrestled alongside McMichael during their time in WCW as members of the iconic Four Horsemen stable, will be in the building to pay his respects. Following McMichael’s passing, Flair posted an emotional tribute on social media, calling him “an amazing friend and athlete.” Their friendship extended far beyond the ring, and Flair’s involvement in the upcoming tribute ensures it will be as heartfelt as it is historic.

Before stepping into the squared circle, McMichael carved out a legendary career in the NFL — including a Super Bowl win with the Chicago Bears. He later made the jump to professional wrestling in 1995, becoming a regular presence on WCW Monday Nitro and eventually competing in matches from 1996 to 1999. Known for his charisma, toughness, and unmistakable swagger, McMichael became one of WCW’s most memorable crossover stars.

AEW Collision: Beach Break will be taped on April 14 — the same day as AEW Dynamite — and will air on Saturday, April 17. The show is already shaping up to be an emotional and action-packed night, with the returns of Skye Blue and Zach Gowen already confirmed. Now, the inclusion of a tribute to one of wrestling’s most unique figures adds a powerful dose of legacy to the card.

Fans in Chicago — and across the wrestling world — will no doubt be tuning in to remember Mongo and the mark he left on both sports and sports entertainment.

Steve “Mongo” McMichael Passes Away at 67 After Courageous Battle With ALS

The wrestling and sports worlds are mourning the loss of a true warrior today, as Steve “Mongo” McMichael has passed away at the age of 67. The former Chicago Bears defensive standout, turned WCW star, died Wednesday following a four-year fight with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

McMichael’s legacy spans far beyond the gridiron. A cornerstone of the legendary 1985 Super Bowl-winning Chicago Bears—famously dubbed the “Monsters of the Midway”—McMichael was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024. But wrestling fans remember him just as fondly for his larger-than-life persona in the squared circle.

“Mongo” made a smooth transition from football to pro wrestling in the mid-90s, becoming a colorful figure in WCW. He initially joined the promotion as a commentator but quickly stepped into the ring, aligning himself with one of the most iconic factions in wrestling history: The Four Horsemen. During his in-ring tenure, McMichael captured the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship in 1997 by defeating Jeff Jarrett, a moment that cemented his place in wrestling lore.

McMichael’s later years were marked by a brave public battle with ALS, which he was diagnosed with in 2021. His health struggles became increasingly severe, and earlier this year he was hospitalized with MRSA and required a blood transfusion. On Wednesday, reports emerged that McMichael had entered hospice care after being taken off a ventilator. His passing was confirmed by WGN’s Jarrett Payton, who was with him during his final moments.

“With deep sorrow, I share that Steve McMichael passed at 5:28 PM after a brave fight with ALS surrounded by loved ones,” Payton posted on X (formerly Twitter). “I’m grateful to have been with him in his final moments. Please keep Steve and his family in your prayers.”

From hard-hitting tackles to Horsemen beatdowns, Steve McMichael lived every moment with intensity and charisma. Whether you knew him from Soldier Field or the WCW ring, “Mongo” left a lasting impression. His resilience, both as an athlete and as a man fighting a devastating disease, will not be forgotten.

WWE issued the following statement on Mongo’s passing on X (formerly Twitter):

“WWE is saddened to learn that Steve “Mongo” McMichael has passed away. WWE extends its condolences to McMichael’s family, friends, and fans.”