During a recent appearance on “The A2theK Wrestling Show,” WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Von Erich remembered his late brother and former WWF star, Kerry Von Erich.
You can check out some highlights from the podcast below:
On his brother Kerry being into bodybuilding: “For me, I lifted weights but it was because I wanted to be a better wrestler, but Kerry wanted the bodybuilder thing.”
On how Kerry felt about his foot amputation: “To Kerry, he was a cripple, he was a freak and he was just completely crushed inside about what he’d done. He loved to have fun. He didn’t hurt anybody but he did hurt himself.”
On why he thinks Kerry took his own life: “The reason Kerry killed himself is because of that … he felt like he let us all down.”
Kerry died by suicide with a single gunshot to the heart on February 18, 1993, on his father Fritz Von Erich’s ranch in Denton County, Texas, just 15 days after his 33rd birthday.
The Tragic Story of Kerry Von Erich: A Wrestling Legend Remembered
In the world of professional wrestling, few names carry the weight and legacy of the Von Erich family. Known for their incredible athleticism and captivating performances, the Von Erichs left an indelible mark on the industry. However, behind the glitz and glamour, there was a tragic story that unfolded, particularly in the life of Kerry Von Erich.
Kerry Von Erich, born on February 3, 1960, in Niagara Falls, New York, was the son of wrestling legend Fritz Von Erich. From a young age, Kerry was immersed in the world of wrestling, growing up in a family that lived and breathed the sport. Alongside his brothers, Kevin, David, Mike, and Chris, Kerry embarked on a journey that would see him become one of the most beloved figures in professional wrestling.
One aspect that set Kerry apart from his siblings was his passion for bodybuilding. While his brothers focused on honing their wrestling skills, Kerry dedicated himself to sculpting his physique. Kevin Von Erich reminisced about this during a recent appearance on “The A2theK Wrestling Show,” stating, “For me, I lifted weights but it was because I wanted to be a better wrestler, but Kerry wanted the bodybuilder thing.”
However, despite his success in the wrestling ring and his dedication to bodybuilding, Kerry faced personal demons that haunted him throughout his life. One of the most significant challenges he encountered was the amputation of his foot. In a heartbreaking revelation, Kevin shared Kerry’s feelings about the amputation, saying, “To Kerry, he was a cripple, he was a freak and he was just completely crushed inside about what he’d done. He loved to have fun. He didn’t hurt anybody but he did hurt himself.”
These feelings of inadequacy and self-loathing ultimately led Kerry to a tragic end. On February 18, 1993, just 15 days after his 33rd birthday, Kerry Von Erich took his own life with a single gunshot to the heart on his father’s ranch in Denton County, Texas. The wrestling world was left in shock and mourning as they grappled with the loss of a true icon.
Kevin Von Erich also shed light on why he believes Kerry made such a devastating decision. He stated, “The reason Kerry killed himself is because of that… he felt like he let us all down.” This sentiment speaks volumes about the immense pressure and expectations that weighed heavily on Kerry’s shoulders.
The tragic story of Kerry Von Erich serves as a reminder of the toll that fame, personal struggles, and internal battles can take on individuals, even those who appear to have it all. It is a stark reminder that behind the larger-than-life personas and dazzling performances, wrestlers are human beings with their own fears, insecurities, and vulnerabilities.
Today, Kerry Von Erich’s legacy lives on through the memories of his fans and loved ones. His contributions to professional wrestling will never be forgotten, and his story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of mental health and seeking support during times of darkness.
As the wrestling community continues to honor and remember Kerry Von Erich, it is crucial to reflect on the importance of compassion, understanding, and empathy towards those who may be silently battling their own demons. Let us learn from Kerry’s tragic story and strive to create a world where no one feels alone or burdened by the weight of their own expectations.