Steve “Mongo” McMichaellegendary defensive of the Chicago Bears and star of professional wrestling, died Wednesday at age 67 after a long fight against the ELA (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). The former player, diagnosed in 2021, was under palliative care and died in peace surrounded by his family.
McMichael was a key piece of the mythical defense of the Chicago Bears Super Bowl Champions in 1985playing 13 seasons with the team and establishing a record of 191 consecutive games. Add 92.5 Capture of Mariscal de Campo, the second highest figure in the history of the franchise. In 2024 he was finally presented to Professional American Football Hall.
After retiring from the NFL in 1994, McMichael debuted in wrestling in WrestleMania XI As part of the Lawrence Taylor team. That same year he joined WCWfirst as a commentator in Monday Nitro and then as a full -time fighter.
In 1997, he conquered the WCW United States Championship And he joined the legendary Four Horsemen Next to Ric Flair, Chris Benoit and Dean Malenko. His career included rivalries with Jeff Jarrett, the NWO, Kevin Greene, Reggie White and an intense story with Goldberg, where he recovered his super bowl ring in a remembered scene.
After leaving wrestling in 1999, McMichael continued linked to entertainment and sport as coach of the Chicago Slaughter and radio announcer. He was even special referee at the event Bound For Glory of TNA In 2008.
The news was confirmed by Jarrett Paytonson of the legendary Walter Payton, who acted as a family spokesman. From the NFL to wrestling, multiple figures have paid tribute to McMichael for their courage, charisma and indelible legacy.
Ric Flair reaction
Ric Flair shared costumes with McMichael during his time on WCW, and even shared several stories together. The Nature Boy, a great personal friend of McMichael, published a post on social networks, reacting to the news.
“The world has just lost the incredible Steve” Mongo “McMichael! It was my best friend at all times! An incredible athlete and human being! I have the best memories of working with him, and this loss is a heartbreaking loss for me! I love you, Mongo! You struggled a hard battle! Rest in peace, friend!” Flair wrote in X.
