Credited from: REUTERS
Steve McMichael, a Pro Football Hall of Famer renowned for his prowess on the field with the Chicago Bears, has died at the age of 67. McMichael succumbed to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and passed away in hospice care surrounded by loved ones in Joliet, Illinois, according to Reuters, HuffPost, and The New York Times.
Nicknamed "Mongo," McMichael was a key player on the legendary 1985 Bears defense, which helped the team capture the Super Bowl title that year. He became well-known for his ferocious playstyle and distinctive personality, earning a reputation as one of the most feared defenders in NFL history, reports HuffPost and The New York Times.
During his 15-year NFL career, including 13 seasons with the Bears, McMichael recorded an impressive 92.5 sacks, ranking second in the team's history. He played a record 191 consecutive games, demonstrating his durability and commitment to the game, as highlighted by Reuters and The New York Times.
McMichael's battle with ALS brought attention to the heightened risk of the disease among NFL players, who are four times more likely to develop it compared to the general population, according to research mentioned in HuffPost.
Beyond football, McMichael ventured into professional wrestling, where he maintained his larger-than-life persona. He began his wrestling career during the height of its popularity in the 1990s and became a notable figure in WCW, as noted by HuffPost and Reuters.
McMichael’s legacy includes not only his sports achievements but also his charismatic personality that endeared him to fans. Friends and colleagues have celebrated his contributions both on and off the field, with sentiments reflecting on his character and generosity, according to HuffPost and The New York Times.