Steve “Mongo” McMichael, the Hall of Fame defensive tackle and beloved Chicago Bears figure, died on Wednesday at age 67 after a prolonged battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Diagnosed in 2021, McMichael had been under hospice care and passed away peacefully surrounded by family.
A cornerstone of the Bears’ dominant 1985 Super Bowl-winning defense, McMichael played 13 seasons in Chicago, earning two All-Pro honors and setting a team record with 191 consecutive games played. His 92.5 career sacks rank second in franchise history, behind only Richard Dent. In 2024, McMichael was formally inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the league’s greats.
Beyond his NFL achievements, McMichael transitioned into professional wrestling following his retirement in 1994. He made his debut at WrestleMania XI in 1995, appearing in Lawrence Taylor’s corner during the main event. Later that year, he joined WCW, first as a commentator on Monday Nitro and then as a full-time wrestler by 1996.
Managed by his then-wife Debra, McMichael quickly found success, capturing the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship in 1997 and feuding with stars like Jeff Jarrett. His most memorable run came as a member of the Four Horsemen alongside Ric Flair, Chris Benoit, and Dean Malenko. His tenure included high-stakes rivalries with the nWo, a storyline betrayal by Curt Hennig, and intense showdowns with fellow NFL alumni such as Kevin Greene and Reggie White. A brutal feud with Goldberg in 1997 added further intrigue, featuring McMichael reclaiming his stolen Super Bowl ring in dramatic fashion.
After leaving wrestling in 1999, McMichael remained connected to sports and entertainment, coaching the Chicago Slaughter and hosting local radio shows. In 2008, he made a one-time appearance as a guest referee at TNA’s Bound For Glory.
News of McMichael’s death was shared by Jarrett Payton, son of the late Walter Payton, who had served as the family spokesperson throughout his health battle. The loss has reverberated throughout the NFL and pro wrestling communities, with tributes highlighting his unmatched toughness, charisma, and enduring influence in both sports.
McMichael’s legacy spans generations—as a ferocious competitor on the gridiron and an unforgettable personality in the squared circle.
