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NFL And Wrestling Legend Steve McMichael Passes Away At Age 67

By John Canton • Published 23rd April 2025
Steve McMichael

Steve McMichael, a former NFL Hall of Famer and WCW wrestler, passed away at the age of 67.

It was reported earlier on Wednesday that Steve McMichael was moved to hospice care due to his long battle with ALS. Sadly, the family of McMichael have announced that he has passed away.

In a statement by Jarrett Payton, the son of McMichael’s former teammate and fellow Hall of Famer, Walter Payton, it was announced that Steve McMichael has passed away.

“With deep sorrow, I share that Steve McMichael passed at 5:28 PM after a brave fight with #ALS, surrounded by loved ones. I’m grateful to have been with him in his final moments. Please keep Steve and his family [in] your prayers.”

During his NFL career, Steve “Mongo” McMichael was a defensive lineman for the Chicago Bears and a member of their legendary 1985 Super Bowl-winning team, widely regarded as one of the greatest teams in NFL history. Mongo’s NFL career lasted from 1980 through 1994. McMichael played in 213 games, 171 starts, 847 tackles and 95 sacks and earned two Pro Bowl nod in his career.

Steve McMichael announced in April of 2021 that he had been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and his condition worsened over the last few years.

His sister shared the following photo and message on social media.

When he was finally inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024, McMichael issued this statement through his family:

“I do not want ALS to be my legacy. What I did on the field, that’s my legacy. Pushing myself to the limit … farther than anybody else could.” (ESPN)

Ric Flair Pays Tribute To Steve McMichael

After his NFL career ended, McMichael appeared as part of New York Giants legend Lawrence Taylor’s entourage in the main event of WrestleMania 11 in 1995.

Later that year in September 1995, McMichael signed with WCW as an announcer. He would become a wrestler a year later and would even join Ric Flair and the Four Horsemen. McMichael worked for WCW until early 1999.

During his WCW career, McMichael held the US Title for 24 days in 1997.

Ric Flair was a good friend of McMichael and spent a lot of time with Mongo after his ALS battle was announced. Flair shared a touching message with photos on social media.

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!

Steve McMichael is survived by his wife, Misty, and their daughter, Macy.

Everybdoy here at TJRWrestling sends our condolences to the family, friends and fans of the legendary Steve “Mongo” McMichael.