WWE and AEW Legends Mourn Death of Former Four Horsemen & NFL Hall of Famer
After McMichael's Hall-of-Fame football career ended, he had a successful career in professional wrestling, first as a broadcaster and then as an in-ring competitor and member of the legendary Four Horsemen faction. Several former professional football players and wrestling legends took to social media to pay their respects to McMichael.
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Ric Flair, who has consistently posted updates about Mongo's condition posted a touching tribute to McMichael:
WCW legend Sting also posted a tribute to McMichael reflecting on his final conversations with him.
All Elite Wrestling posted this classy tribute image and post.
WWE Raw General Manager, Adam Pearce paid homage to McMichael with an image and reflection on Mongo's professional accomplishments.
WWE legend, Brian Heffron aka The Blue Meanie posted an image and a memory of a conversation he had with McMichael.
Wrestling icon, Missy Hyatt also posted about McMichael.
McMichael battled the disease since being diagnosed in 2021. Despite his declining health, he remained a source of strength and inspiration for fans of both football and wrestling. His story resonated beyond the ring or the field—it became a message about resilience, loyalty, and legacy.
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McMichael's impact spanned two arenas—football and professional wrestling—each of which felt his presence in different ways. In the NFL, he was one of the anchors of the famed 1985 Chicago Bears defense, a Super Bowl-winning team etched into football history. McMichael was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024.
In wrestling, he was both a surprising and successful crossover, eventually joining one of the sport's most iconic stables. His personality, toughness, and charisma translated in ways few athletes have ever managed when crossing over from one entertainment field to another.
As a Chicagoan who was in love with that 1985 Bears team, I am especially sad to cover the news of Mongo's passing.
Expect WWE to acknowledge McMichael on Friday's episode of SmackDown as AEW did on Wednesday night for Dynamite. His presence meant enough to professional wrestling to be universally recognized.
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Related: Corey Graves Sends Cold X Message After Gunther Attacks Pat McAfee
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