Steve “Mongo” McMichael Passes Away at 67 Following ALS Battle – Steve “Mongo” McMichael, the former NFL star and WCW personality, has passed away at the age of 67 after a four-year battle with ALS. His death was confirmed Wednesday evening by Jarrett Payton, son of NFL legend Walter Payton, who revealed McMichael passed at 5:28 PM. Earlier in the day, it had been announced that McMichael had entered hospice care.
A standout defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears, McMichael was part of the historic 1985 Super Bowl XX championship team, widely regarded for its legendary defense. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in February 2024, a moment that garnered national attention due to his ongoing fight with ALS.
Beyond football, McMichael earned recognition in the world of professional wrestling. He was a prominent figure in WCW during the Monday Night War era from 1995 to 1999, serving both as a commentator and in-ring competitor. McMichael famously joined the iconic Four Horsemen faction and captured the WCW United States Championship during his time in the company.
His wrestling crossover began in 1995 when he accompanied Lawrence Taylor at WWE’s WrestleMania XI during Taylor’s match against Bam Bam Bigelow.
Following news of his passing, Ric Flair—McMichael’s longtime friend and fellow Horseman—shared a heartfelt tribute, calling McMichael “my best friend,” and honoring the legacy of a man who made a lasting impact in two vastly different worlds.
Tributes also poured in from across the wrestling world to honor his legacy and impact.
McMichael’s resilience in the face of ALS and his contributions to both football and wrestling will not be forgotten.
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
RIP Mongo pic.twitter.com/ex235aWYLX
— Arn Anderson (@TheArnShow) April 24, 2025
Godspeed, Steve “Mongo” McMichael. Whether it was on the field, local Chicagoland TV and radio, or eventually in the ring, you ALWAYS entertained me. All respect for your work ethic and that signature rebel spirit you carried throughout. Rest well, sir. ❤️🙏 pic.twitter.com/LTKr4wh62t
— Adam Pearce (@ScrapDaddyAP) April 24, 2025
In Mongo’s honor I’m gonna officially refer to my tombstone as the Mongo Spike. Commentators take note.
— BLACKWOOD (@blkwdxvx) April 24, 2025
Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael. 🙏🏽
Four years ago today, Steve shared these words with me—words that will stay with me for the rest of my life. They’re words we can all live by. #RIPMongo | #Bears pic.twitter.com/VzlrXnhWwv
— Jarrett Payton (@paytonsun) April 24, 2025
Mongo was always my favorite horseman for some reason. No idea why, but loved the dude.
Rip to the goat
— Tony Deppen (@Tony_Deppen) April 23, 2025
Rest In Peace Steve “Mongo” McMichael… pic.twitter.com/0i1KNFyBR1
— Brian Heffron aka The Blue Meanie (@BlueMeanieBWO) April 23, 2025
i have had nothing but love and respect for steve mongo mcmichael for decades and i will miss him. https://t.co/BD4s0LwDa0
— emil (@TheEmilJay) April 23, 2025
AEW and the wrestling world mourns the passing of pro wrestler and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Steve “Mongo” McMichael. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans. pic.twitter.com/fC2IzmsDVV
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) April 23, 2025
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Steve “Mongo” McMichael Passes Away at 67 Following ALS Battle
