Steve “Mongo” McMichael, one of the most beloved figures in both professional football and wrestling, has passed away at the age of 67. The former Chicago Bears legend and wrestling icon succumbed to complications from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a neurodegenerative disease that had slowly robbed him of his mobility and voice. As fans across the country mourn his passing, we take a closer look at his legacy, career highlights, net worth, and the courageous fight he waged during his final years.
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What Was Steve McMichael’s Net Worth at the Time of His Death?
Steve McMichael’s estimated net worth stood at $3 million at the time of his passing. His financial legacy was built on a multifaceted career that spanned professional football, wrestling, sports broadcasting, and coaching.
- NFL Career: McMichael played 15 seasons in the NFL, notably with the Chicago Bears where he spent 13 years. During this time, he became one of the most feared defensive tackles in the league.
- Wrestling Career: From 1995 to 1999, he was an integral part of World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he wrestled alongside legends in the iconic group “The Four Horsemen.”
- Media and Coaching: In retirement, he continued to work in sports media, hosting a Bears pre-game show on ESPN 1000 and serving as head coach of the Chicago Slaughter in the Indoor Football League.
Despite the challenges brought on by ALS, McMichael and his family remained resilient and active in campaigns for his Hall of Fame induction, which he finally achieved shortly before his death.
How Did Steve McMichael Die?
McMichael passed away from complications related to ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, which he was diagnosed with in 2021. The illness gradually took away his ability to move and speak, leaving him bedridden in his final years.
His wife, Misty, was a pillar of strength during his battle, launching a public campaign to raise awareness and to push for his enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame—an honor he received in August 2023.
He had signed a “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) order in 2023, but symbolically tore it up upon learning he was a senior finalist for Hall of Fame induction, a moment that revealed his deep love for the game and his legacy.
What Were the Highlights of McMichael’s Football Career?
Steve McMichael was a defensive powerhouse who made an indelible mark in football history:
- Super Bowl Champion (1985): McMichael was a central figure in the Bears’ historic 1985 defense, widely considered the greatest in NFL history.
- Pro Bowl and All-Pro Selections: He was a two-time Pro Bowler and earned first-team All-Pro honors twice.
- Franchise Records: He played in a franchise-record 191 consecutive games with the Bears and amassed 92.5 sacks, the second-most in team history behind Richard Dent.
- Hall of Fame Induction: After years of being overlooked, he was officially inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023, celebrated in an emotional ceremony streamed from his home.
What Was Steve McMichael’s Role in Professional Wrestling?
After retiring from football, McMichael transitioned into the world of professional wrestling with WCW:
- The Four Horsemen: He joined the prestigious faction alongside Ric Flair, becoming a fan favorite.
- United States Heavyweight Champion: He won the WCW U.S. Championship during his stint.
- Commentator and Entertainer: Before stepping into the ring, he began as a commentator and appeared in WrestleMania XI in support of NFL star Lawrence Taylor.
His wrestling persona, “Mongo,” embodied the same ferocity and theatrical bravado he was known for on the gridiron.
What Was McMichael’s Life Like Off the Field?
McMichael was more than an athlete; he was a multifaceted personality known for his wit, charisma, and loyalty.
- Early Life: Born in Houston in 1957, he grew up in Freer, Texas. He was a standout athlete in high school, excelling in multiple sports including football, baseball, track, and tennis.
- College Career: At the University of Texas, he was a unanimous first-team All-American, finishing with a school record 369 tackles and 30 sacks.
- Family Life: He was first married to Debra Marshall (later a wrestling valet), and later to Misty Davenport in 2001. They had a daughter, Macy, in 2008.
- McMichael also dabbled in politics, making a run for mayor of Romeoville, Illinois, in 2013.
