WWE legend Kevin Sullivan has passed away at age 74.
Long-time Florida wrestling personality Barry Rose confirmed Sullivan’s death on Friday, writing: ‘With the heaviest of hearts, we are devastated to have to report the passing of the legendary Kevin Sullivan. May he RIP and his family, friends and fans find comfort in how much he was loved.’
Sullivan’s death comes not long after he suffered what his family called a ‘devastating accident’ during an autograph signing in Florida in May.
After undergoing emergency surgery to save his life and leg, the former pro wrestler suffered complications, including sepsis and encephalitis.
The family launched a fundraiser to cover medical expenses after his extended stay in ICU. In less than a day, the fundraiser exceeded its $20,000 goal, thanks to contributions from wrestling personalities Chris Jericho and Dutch Mantell.
WWE legend Kevin ‘Taskmaster’ Sullivan passed away, as reported on Friday morning
Sullivan suffered an accident during an autograph signing in Florida in May and was put in ICU
‘Kevin Sullivan Has Been One Of My Closest Friends In The Business,’ WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair wrote on Thursday. ‘His Knowledge Of All Sports, Not Just Wrestling, Is Unparalleled. He Is One Of The Most Brilliant Minds In The History Of Our Business.
‘Kevin Led WCW To A Year And A Half Victory Over WWE, And Dealt With So Many Personalities Like Hall, Nash, The NWO, Eric Bischoff, The Nature Boy Ric Flair, And Hulk Hogan! Stay Strong Kevin!!!! We Need You!’
WWE chief and former wrestler Triple H wrote: ‘Kevin Sullivan had one of the most unique minds in the history of our industry, pushing creative boundaries and developing some of the most intriguing characters to step into the ring. He had an unwavering passion for what we do. My thoughts are with his family, friends & fans.’
Nicknamed ‘Taskmaster’, Sullivan was one of the more iconic heels in pro wrestling
Sullivan played rival to icons such as Dusty Rhodes, Hulk Hogan, and The Road Warriors
Meanwhile, WWE also released a statement on social media following the news of his passing.
‘WWE is saddened to learn that Kevin Sullivan has passed away. We extend our condolences to Kevin’s family, friends and fans.’
Nicknamed ‘Taskmaster’, Sullivan was one of the more iconic heels in pro wrestling, playing rival to icons such as Dusty Rhodes, Hulk Hogan, and The Road Warriors. He was also known for leading factions such as the Army of Darkness, The Varsity Club, and The Dungeon of Doom – which introduced Big Show to the wrestling world.
***
Read more at DailyMail.co.uk