Steve “Mongo” McMichael, Chicago Bears Super Bowl Champion, Dies at 66 After ALS Battle
steve “Mongo” McMichael, the formidable defensive tackle who helped the Chicago Bears dominate the NFL and later transitioned to a career in professional wrestling, has died at the age of 66 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His passing marks the end of an era for Bears fans and wrestling enthusiasts alike.
Bears Legend and “Monster of the Midway”
McMichael, a key member of the legendary 1985 Chicago Bears Super Bowl XX championship team, passed away surrounded by his family, according to Jarrett Payton, who served as a family spokesperson during McMichael’s illness. Payton, son of Bears icon Walter Payton, shared the news with a heavy heart.The Bears’ dominant defense,known as the “Monsters of the Midway,” is widely considered one of the greatest in NFL history.
NFL Career of Steve McMichael
During his NFL career from 1980-1994, McMichael earned two pro Bowl selections (1985, 1986) and two First-Team All-Pro honors (1985, 1987). He played for the Chicago Bears (1981-1993) and finished his career with the Green Bay packers in 1994.
ALS Diagnosis and Fight
McMichael publicly announced his diagnosis of ALS in 2021, a neurodegenerative disease with no known cure. The disease gradually robbed him of his physical abilities,as it has affected others in the sports world and beyond.
From Gridiron to the Wrestling Ring
After retiring from the NFL, McMichael embarked on a second career as a professional wrestler with World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he became a notable figure.
steve McMichael, chicago Bears Legend and Former Wrestler, Dies at 66 after ALS Battle
Chicago Bears icon and former professional wrestler Steve McMichael has died at the age of 66 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). McMichael, a defensive tackle, was a key member of the Bears’ legendary 1985 Super Bowl XX championship team. News of his passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from the sports and entertainment worlds.
NFL Star to WCW Wrestler
Following a stellar NFL career, McMichael transitioned to professional wrestling, joining World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the mid-1990s. He made an initial appearance alongside former NFL player Lawrence Taylor at wrestlemania XI,supporting Taylor in his match against Bam Bam Bigelow. This appearance paved the way to a more active Wrestling career.
In 1996, McMichael teamed with another NFL alum, Kevin Greene, in a match against wrestling legends Ric Flair and Arn Anderson. McMichael shocked fans by turning on Greene and joining Flair’s famed “Four Horsemen” stable.In 1997, he briefly held the WCW United states Championship after defeating Jeff Jarrett.
McMichael’s Battle with ALS
McMichael publicly disclosed his ALS diagnosis in 2021. despite the challenges of the disease, he maintained a positive attitude. In his own words, in a quote appearing in the Tribune, he noted that Lou Gehrig was diagnosed with the disease earlier in life, while it waited until he “was an old man”. ALS is also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease in the United States.
Legacy and Hall of Fame
McMichael is survived by his wife, Misty Davenport, who cared for him in his final years. she accepted McMichael’s Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement in 2024.
The Chicago Bears released a statement acknowledging McMichael’s death. “Steve McMichael was a Bears legend, and his fight against ALS inspired us all,” the statement read.
what year was steve McMichael inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and who accepted the honor on his behalf?
Steve ”Mongo” McMichael, Chicago Bears Super Bowl Champion, Dies at 66 After ALS Battle
Steve “Mongo” McMichael, the formidable defensive tackle who helped the chicago Bears dominate the NFL and later transitioned to a career in professional wrestling, has died at the age of 66 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His passing marks the end of an era for Bears fans and wrestling enthusiasts alike.
Bears Legend and “Monster of the Midway”
McMichael, a key member of the legendary 1985 Chicago Bears Super Bowl XX championship team, passed away surrounded by his family, according to Jarrett Payton, who served as a family spokesperson during McMichael’s illness. Payton, son of Bears icon Walter Payton, shared the news with a heavy heart. The Bears’ dominant defense, known as the “Monsters of the Midway,” is widely considered one of the greatest in NFL history.
NFL Career of Steve McMichael
During his NFL career from 1980-1994, McMichael earned two Pro Bowl selections (1985, 1986) and two First-Team All-Pro honors (1985, 1987). He played for the Chicago Bears (1981-1993) and finished his career with the Green Bay Packers in 1994.
ALS Diagnosis and Fight
McMichael publicly announced his diagnosis of ALS in 2021, a neurodegenerative disease with no known cure. The disease gradually robbed him of his physical abilities, as it has affected others in the sports world and beyond.
From Gridiron to the Wrestling Ring
After retiring from the NFL,mcmichael embarked on a second career as a professional wrestler with World Championship Wrestling (WCW),where he became a notable figure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Steve McMichael’s nickname, and why?
McMichael’s nickname was “Mongo.” While the exact origin isn’t explicitly stated in the provided text it’s a common nickname for individuals with a strong, imposing physique which he certainly had. It’s a nod to his formidable presence on the field.
What were Steve mcmichael’s biggest accomplishments in the NFL?
McMichael was a key player on the 1985 Chicago Bears Super Bowl XX championship team. He was also a two-time Pro bowler (1985, 1986) and earned two First-team all-Pro honors (1985, 1987). He played for the Chicago Bears from 1981 to 1993.
When did Steve McMichael announce his ALS diagnosis?
McMichael publicly announced his ALS diagnosis in 2021 [[1](https://apnews.com/article/steve-mcmichael-dead-als-chicago-bears-36c7f215df3a90a562dc88b9fe5a7fe2)].
What was McMichael’s role in professional wrestling?
After retiring from the NFL, McMichael joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW). He was part of the “Four Horsemen” stable and even held the WCW United States Championship for a brief period.
Where did McMichael finish his NFL career?
McMichael finished his NFL career with the Green Bay Packers in 1994.
How is Steve McMichael being honored for his achievements?
Steve McMichael’s legacy is being honored with his Pro Football hall of Fame enshrinement, which was accepted by his wife Misty Davenport in 2024.
Steve McMichael’s life was a testament to strength, resilience, and a fighting spirit. Let’s remember and honor his legacy.
