WWE legend Kevin Sullivan has passed away at the age of 74.
Longtime Florida wrestling personality Barry Rose confirmed Sullivan’s death on Friday, writing, “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we are devastated to have to report the passing of the legendary Kevin Sullivan. May he rest in peace and may his family, friends and fans find solace in how much he was loved.”
Sullivan’s death comes shortly 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 professional wrestler suffered complications including sepsis and encephalitis.
The family launched a fundraising campaign to cover medical expenses following his extended stay in the ICU. In less than a day, the campaign surpassed its goal of $20,000, thanks to contributions from wrestling personalities Chris Jericho and Dutch Mantell.
WWE legend Kevin ‘Taskmaster’ Sullivan has passed away, it was reported Friday morning
Sullivan suffered an accident during an autograph signing in Florida in May and was admitted to the ICU.
“Kevin Sullivan has been one of my best friends in the business,” WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair wrote Thursday. “His knowledge of all sports, not just wrestling, is unmatched. He is one of the most brilliant minds in the history of our business.”
‘Kevin led WCW to a year-and-a-half long victory over WWE, and took on so many personalities including Hall, Nash, The NWO, Eric Bischoff, The Nature Boy Ric Flair, and Hulk Hogan. Stay strong Kevin! We need you!’
WWE boss 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 ever step into the ring. He had an unwavering passion for what we do. My thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans.’
Nicknamed ‘Taskmaster’, Sullivan was one of the most iconic heels in professional 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 by the passing of Kevin Sullivan. We extend our condolences to Kevin’s family, friends and fans.’
Nicknamed “Taskmaster,” Sullivan was one of professional wrestling’s most iconic heels, rivaling 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.