Wrestling Legend Kevin Sullivan Dead at 74

He faced off against some of the WCW's biggest names, including Hulk Hogan.

Former World Championship Wrestling star Kevin Sullivan has passed away at age 74, the WWE confirmed early Friday. He was described as a "unique and influential figure in sports-entertainment history" who "found success both in the ring and behind the scenes with his penchant for far out ideas that pushed creative boundaries."

After getting his start on the amateur circuit in Boston in the 1970s, Sullivan made a name for himself in Championship Wrestling from Florida before eventually finding success with the WCW. During his time with the WCW he faced off against some of wrestling's biggest names in high-profile rivalries, including Dusty Rhodes, Hulk Hogan, and The Road Warriors.

He was also involved in an intense rivalry with professional wrestler Chris Benoit both inside and out of the ring, after his wife Nancy Toffoloni (née Benoit) who also wrestled professionally under the name "Woman" left him for Benoit, whom she eventually married. In 2000, after his retirement, he was promoted to head booker of the WCW, which was said to have infuriated a number of wrestlers given his extensive history of professional rivalries, including with Benoit.

"I am so saddened to hear about Kevin Sullivan’s passing," his colleague Rick Flair posted to social media in the wake if the news. "Rest in peace Kevin! You were an all-time great athlete and friend!"

I Am So Saddened To Hear About Kevin Sullivan’s Passing. Rest In Peace Kevin! You Were An All Time Great Athlete & Friend! ???????? pic.twitter.com/QYBVuhpbJu

— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) August 9, 2024

The cause of Sullivan's death is unclear. However, SlamWrestling reported last month that he had suffered "devastating accident" at a Florida autograph signing on May 12 that required surgery to save his leg, but he still faced severe complications including sepsis and encephalitis. He was said to have been in and out of consciousness in the ICU and was at the time "fighting to regain his independence."

"WWE extends its condolences to Sullivan’s family, friends and fans," the organization stated.