WCW legend Kevin Sullivan dies just months after ‘devastating accident’ as tributes from WWE alums pour in
WRESTLING legend Kevin Sullivan has died at 74 after suffering an accident in May that led to a series of complications he never recovered from.
WWE announced The Taskmaster's death on Thursday morning, leading tributes to pour in for the former World Championship Wrestling star.
Last month, the wrestler's family set up a GoFundMe for him after his daughter, Nicole, revealed that he had a "devastating accident" in May while he was in Florida for autograph signings.
"He underwent emergency surgery that saved his leg and life but faced severe complications, including sepsis and encephalitis," Nicole wrote on the fundraiser page.
"This unforeseen catastrophe has placed an immense financial burden on his family, as Kevin has been in and out of consciousness in the ICU, far from home.
"Despite these challenges, Kevin has shown incredible resilience. Months later, he is still fighting to regain his independence."
The fundraiser, which has since been disabled, raised over $54,000 in donations for the family's medical expenses.
In WWE's statement, the organization remembered Kevin as a "unique and influential figure in sports-entertainment history."
TRIBUTES POUR IN
Wrestling stars and fans alike are paying tribute to Sullivan on social media.
"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," Triple H wrote on X.
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"He had an unwavering passion for what we do. My thoughts are with his family, friends & fans."
"I Am So Saddened To Hear About Kevin Sullivan’s Passing. Rest In Peace Kevin! You Were An All Time Great Athlete & Friend!" Ric Flair said.
WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry posted, ";Prayers out to the family! RIP!"
On July 15, Nicole shared an update to the GoFundMe saying that Sullivan was "regaining a lot of physical strength."
He had an unwavering passion for what we do."
Paul 'Triple H' Levesque
"He does physical and occupational therapy daily, with the goal and ultimate hope that he regains his independence."
A day before Sullivan's death was announced, Flair shared an encouraging message about him on X.
WWE remembers Kevin Sullivan
WWE released a statement announcing Kevin Sullivan's death on Thursday morning.
"WWE is saddened to learn Kevin Sullivan has passed away at age 74," the message said.
"A unique and influential figure in sports-entertainment history, Sullivan found success both in the ring and behind the scenes with his penchant for far out ideas that pushed creative boundaries.
"As a villain, Sullivan was a major rival for the ring’s most legendary heroes, including Dusty Rhodes, Hulk Hogan and The Road Warriors.
"He specialized in leading dangerous factions, which included his wicked Army of Darkness, collegiate bullies The Varsity Club, and the wild Dungeon of Doom, which introduced Big Show to the wrestling world.
"The onetime 'Taskmaster' also became a creative force behind the scenes for WCW.
"WWE extends its condolences to Sullivan’s family, friends and fans."
"Kevin Sullivan Has Been One Of My Closest Friends In The Business," Flair wrote.
"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!"
GoFundMe page
Kevin Sullivan's daughter, Nicole, started a GoFundMe page to raise donations for her dad's medical expenses.
"The Taskmaster needs your help! Wrestling legend Kevin Sullivan is facing a critical medical emergency and financial crisis," Nicole wrote on the fundraiser's page.
"On May 12th, 2024, while in Florida for autograph signings, Kevin suffered a devastating accident. He underwent emergency surgery that saved his leg and life but faced severe complications, including sepsis and encephalitis.
"This unforeseen catastrophe has placed an immense financial burden on his family, as Kevin has been in and out of consciousness in the ICU, far from home.
"Despite these challenges, Kevin has shown incredible resilience. Months later, he is still fighting to regain his independence," Nicole continued.
"Even with an excellent insurance plan, the coverage is nearly exhausted due to the length of stay.
"Kevin’s illustrious career in wrestling spans six decades, starting in the late sixties. He thrived in Championship Wrestling from Florida, collaborating with legends like Mike Graham and Eddie Graham.
"Kevin continued to impact the wrestling world with WCW and through various speaking engagements, including Vice TVs 'Tales from the Territories' and his weekly show on Conrad Thompson's network, 'Tuesday with the Taskmaster'."
Nicole wrote that the GoFundMe was set up to help cover the costs of:
- Continued hospital expenses
- Skilled nursing care
- Acute and subacute occupational and physical therapy
- Recurring medical expenses
- Transportation to return home to his family
"Your support will help Kevin return to what he loves most: entertaining fans with his rich stories and vast knowledge of wrestling.
"Any contribution, big or small, will make a significant difference in Kevin’s recovery journey.
"Thank you for your generosity and support," the message concluded.
The wrestler, whose career spanned over six decades, was best known for his role as a promoter for WCW.
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Sullivan is survived by his wife, Linda, and four children.
His family has yet to speak out and his exact cause of death remains unclear.
