Steve McMichael passes away at 67 after a courageous battle with ALS, leaving a legacy in both football and wrestling. Known for his role as a key defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears’ 1985 Super Bowl championship team, McMichael, fondly called “Mongo,” died on Wednesday at Lightways Hospice in Joliet, Illinois.
An Induction into the Hall of Fame
McMichael’s career was defined by his tenacity on and off the field. McMichael, a defensive powerhouse, earned All-Pro selections in 1985 and 1987, playing for the Chicago Bears for 13 seasons. He played a key role in the Bears’ illustrious defense, which helped the club win its lone Super Bowl in 1985. With 92 1/2 career sacks, McMichael is second only to Richard Dent in the franchise’s history.
After a bold and spectacular career, McMichael earned election into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024.
From Wrestling to Football
Following his football career, McMichael’s exaggerated demeanor made him an ideal choice for professional wrestling. His nickname was “Mongo” when he joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the 1990s. He even joined Ric Flair’s renowned “Four Horsemen.” His wrestling career followed in the footsteps of his football career, where his iconic persona won over fans all over the world.
ALS Diagnosis and Final Days
In April 2021, McMichael revealed that he had been diagnosed with ALS, a disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.McMichael displayed the same unwavering attitude that characterized his sports career in spite of the disease’s physical toll. Misty McMichael, his wife, called him a “badass” man who remained strong and dignified to the very end.
Remembering “Mongo”
McMichael’s legacy goes beyond his athletic achievements. Friends, family, and fans remember him as a kind and generous man. He would often show his appreciation to teammates and trainers with thoughtful gestures, including signing his preseason paychecks to help team staff. McMichael’s impact on the Bears’ storied history and his contributions to the city of Chicago are immeasurable.
The Bears’ Statement
In a statement, Bears chairman George McCaskey said, “Yet Steve showed us throughout his struggle that his real strength was internal, and he demonstrated on a daily basis his class, his dignity, and his humanity.”
Remembering a Legend
With Steve McMichael’s death, a chapter in the history of the Chicago Bears and professional wrestling comes to an end. We will always remember his impact as a player, wrestler, and individual.
Source: AP News
