Steve “Mongo” McMichael, NFL Star Turned WCW Mainstay, Passes Away at 67

After a four-year battle with ALS, former Chicago Bears defensive tackle and WCW personality Steve “Mongo” McMichael has passed away at the age of 67. His family confirmed the news today, and while the fight he put up was nothing short of courageous, ALS proved too cruel of an opponent.

Ric Flair was among the first to publicly pay tribute, posting,

“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 Battle! Rest In Peace My Friend!”

For younger fans who only know Mongo from the Horsemen memes, make no mistake—Steve McMichael was the real deal. He was a vital part of the legendary 1985 Chicago Bears team, helping lead one of the greatest defenses in NFL history to a dominant Super Bowl XX victory. McMichael played 15 seasons in the NFL, the majority with the Bears, racking up two All-Pro selections and earning a reputation as one of the toughest defensive linemen of his era.

But Mongo’s second act was just as unforgettable. In the mid-’90s, he made the jump to professional wrestling, joining WCW as a commentator before stepping into the ring himself. In 1996, he became the newest member of the Four Horsemen, aligning with Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, and Chris Benoit. While he wasn’t known for his technical in-ring work, McMichael brought a wild charisma, unpredictability, and gridiron toughness that made him a cult favorite on Nitro. His run included a stint as WCW United States Champion, and more than a few memorable moments with a briefcase or set of brass knuckles in hand.

In recent years, McMichael had been bravely battling ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease), and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024, a long overdue recognition that came while he was already in a wheelchair and on a feeding tube.

Wrestling fans, football fans, and the city of Chicago are all mourning the loss of a true original today. Rest easy, Mongo. You’ll always be a Horseman in our book.