WWE confirmed early Friday that former World Championship Wrestling star Kevin Sullivan has died at the age of 74. Described as a “unique and influential figure in sports entertainment history,” Sullivan “achieved success through his passion for outrageous ideas that pushed creative boundaries both in the ring and behind the scenes.”
After starting out on the amateur circuit in Boston in the 1970s, Sullivan made a name for himself in Championship Wrestling out of Florida before finding success with WCW. During his time in WCW, he faced off against some of the biggest names in wrestling in high-profile feuds, including Dusty Rhodes, Hulk Hogan, and The Road Warriors.
He also had an intense rivalry with professional wrestler Chris Benoit, both in and out of the ring, as his wife Nancy Toffoloni (née Benoit) also wrestled professionally under the name “Woman”, and eventually married Benoit. After his retirement in 2000, he was promoted to head promoter of WCW, a situation that was said to infuriate many wrestlers, given his history of professional rivalries, including with Benoit.
“I was so saddened to hear of Kevin Sullivan's passing,” his colleague Rick Flair wrote on social media following the news. “Rest in peace Kevin! You were always a great athlete and friend!”
I was so sad to hear of Kevin Sullivan's passing. Rest in peace Kevin! You were always a great athlete and friend! 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/QYBVuhpbJu
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) August 9, 2024
The cause of Sullivan's death is not yet known. However, Slam Wrestling last month, he announced at a signing ceremony in Florida on May 12 that he had suffered a “devastating accident” and required surgery to save his leg, but faced serious complications including sepsis and encephalitis. He reportedly lost consciousness and checked back in intensive care and was “struggling to regain his independence” at the time.
“WWE offers its condolences to Sullivan's family, friends and fans,” the organization said in a statement.