Things to Do
Things to Do

Wrestler Ivan Koloff, known as 'The Russian Bear,' dies at 74

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 18: Pro Wrestling legend Ivan Koloff has passed away from a liver disease. In his career Koloff wrestled the world over and even held the WWWF World Heavyweight title after defeating Bruno Sammartino for the title. February 18, 2017.

Credit: George Napolitano/ MediaPunch/IPX

Credit: George Napolitano/ MediaPunch/IPX

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 18: Pro Wrestling legend Ivan Koloff has passed away from a liver disease. In his career Koloff wrestled the world over and even held the WWWF World Heavyweight title after defeating Bruno Sammartino for the title. February 18, 2017.
By Joy Johnston
Feb 18, 2017

World Wrestling Entertainment star Ivan Koloff has died at the age of 74.

WWE announced the news on Twitter.

Explore>> Read more trending stories

Koloff, nicknamed "The Russian Bear," was a rival of star wrestler Bruno Sammartino, and the two had many memorable moments in the ring.

Koloff suffered from liver disease, according to his daughter, Rachel Marley. She started a GoFundMe page to raise funds for medical expenses and encourage fans to send cards and prayers.

Hulk Hogan posted his condolences on Twitter, saying that it had been a rough week for the wrestling community. George "The Animal" Steele and Chavo Guerrero Sr. also died recently.

About the Author

Joy Johnston
More Stories

Keep Reading

Foo Fighters closed out Shaky Knees 2024 at Central Park with extended versions of their biggest hits. The indie rock festival has moved to Piedmont Park for this weekend's event. (Ryan Fleisher for the AJC)

Credit: Ryan Fleisher

Beyond the headliners, here are 11 acts not to miss at Shaky Knees

Moving to Piedmont Park, annual indie rock festival Shaky Knees will resonate across four stages this weekend.

15 family-friendly things to do in metro Atlanta this weekend

From the King Center’s international expo and Gwinnett County Fair to Pup-A-Palooza in Johns Creek, here are 15 family-friendly doings in metro Atlanta for Sept. 12-14.

The Latest

Foo Fighters closed out Shaky Knees 2024 at Central Park with extended versions of their biggest hits. The indie rock festival has moved to Piedmont Park for this weekend's event. (Ryan Fleisher for the AJC)

Credit: Ryan Fleisher

Beyond the headliners, here are 11 acts not to miss at Shaky Knees

Where can I find it?

15 family-friendly things to do in metro Atlanta this weekend

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com

A Braves fan took a ball to the face. The team may be liable, judges say.

The Atlanta Braves and former right fielder Jorge Soler face a lawsuit by a fan hit in the eye with a ball during a World Series game at Truist Park in 2021.

Joro spiders multiply across Georgia, spinning their pesky webs

The invasive species has multiplied rapidly in Atlanta in the last three years, research shows.

Ford settles billion-dollar Georgia lawsuits over fatal wrecks

Ford Motor Co. has settled two Georgia lawsuits that elicited record-setting jury verdicts of $1.7 billion and $2.5 billion, ending more than a decade of litigation.