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

Fireworks will be set off at dusk at Alpharetta’s Independence Day event at Wills Park. The photo shows a view of a previous year’s fireworks from the nearby Walk of Memories at American Legion Post 201. (Courtesy of Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau/Jack Tuszynski)

Credit: Jack Tuszynski/PhotoJack.net

July Fourth fireworks shows to boom, sizzle, pop across metro Atlanta skies

Your guide to Independence Day fireworks displays across metro Atlanta. Parades, concerts, kids activities and more will lead up to the pyrotechnics.

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

From Fernbank’s new after-hours series to Sneaker Con and a Western-themed party, here are 15 family-friendly things to do in metro Atlanta this weekend.

Make the most of Atlanta, one of the best staycation cities

If you haven't planned a summer getaway yet, try rediscovering what makes where you live so special - it's called a staycation.

The Latest

Fireworks will be set off at dusk at Alpharetta’s Independence Day event at Wills Park. The photo shows a view of a previous year’s fireworks from the nearby Walk of Memories at American Legion Post 201. (Courtesy of Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau/Jack Tuszynski)

Credit: Jack Tuszynski/PhotoJack.net

July Fourth fireworks shows to boom, sizzle, pop across metro Atlanta skies

Don’t let your pet become another Fourth of July runaway

Where can I find it: quarts of half-sour pickles, tie donation

Featured

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D. (center) is flanked by GOP whip Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo. (left) and Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, as Thune speak to reporters at the Capitol in Washington on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. Earlier Tuesday, the Senate passed the budget reconciliation package of President Donald Trump's signature bill of big tax breaks and spending cuts. (J. Scott Applewhite/AP)

Credit: AP

Senate GOP passes budget bill Democrats describe as ‘a catastrophe’

Republicans in the U.S. Senate have passed the “big, beautiful bill” championed by President Donald Trump, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tiebreaking vote.

State Farm Arena top 5 globally in box office — behind only Sphere, MSG in U.S.

State Farm Arena brought in about $76.2 million across 60 events.

At a store that never closes, an armed comedian keeps the midnight watch

At JJ Food Mart on the west side of Atlanta, an armed comedian keeps the midnight watch. If you misbehave, Connell Daniels Jr. might put you on Instagram.