NFL legend and WCW star remembered for his toughness, heart, and legacy in both football and wrestling
Summary
– Steve McMichael died Wednesday at 67 after a four-year fight with ALS
– He was a Super Bowl champion with the 1985 Chicago Bears and a Pro Football Hall of Famer
– McMichael also had a successful WCW run as a wrestler, commentator, and member of the Four Horsemen
Steve “Mongo” McMichael, a larger-than-life figure in both football and wrestling, passed away Wednesday at the age of 67 following a courageous four-year battle with ALS. Jarrett Payton, son of Walter Payton, confirmed McMichael’s passing at 5:28 PM. Earlier in the day, McMichael had entered hospice care.
A dominant defensive tackle, McMichael played 13 seasons with the Chicago Bears and was a cornerstone of their legendary 1985 Super Bowl-winning defense. In February 2024, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame—an emotional milestone during his health battle that resonated nationwide.
Beyond football, McMichael became a fan favorite in WCW during the Monday Night War era, serving as both a commentator and in-ring performer from 1995 to 1999. He joined the Four Horsemen, won the United States Championship, and even appeared at WrestleMania XI as part of Lawrence Taylor’s entourage in the match against Bam Bam Bigelow.
Ric Flair, McMichael’s close friend and fellow Horseman, posted a tribute calling him “my best friend,” echoing the love and respect felt across both sports worlds.
The World Just Lost The Incredible Steve “Mongo” McMichael! He Was My Best Friend Through It All! An Amazing Athlete And Human Being! I Have The Fondest Memories Working With Him, And This Is An Extremely Heartbreaking Loss For Me! I Love You Mongo! You Fought One Hell Of A… pic.twitter.com/yq2YHfWKmf
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) April 23, 2025
