We have some sad news to pass along tonight, as Ole Anderson has passed away at the age of 81.
While no additional details are known at this time, Ricky Morton took to Instagram to announce that Anderson has passed away. He wrote,
“Rest in Paradise, Ole Anderson.
You taught me so much in professional wrestling. You were tough as nails.
You will be missed, my friend.”
Anderson began his wrestling career in 1967. At the time, he worked in the AWA as Rock Rogowski. He would move onto Jim Crockett Promotions in 1968 where he joined his kayfabe brother Gene as the Minnesota Wrecking Crew.
When Vince McMahon bought the majority interest in Georgia Championship Wrestling, Anderson pushed back against the change and left to start a new company called Championship Wrestling from Georgia.
Anderson is best known for his time working in the Four Horsemen stable. He was a founding member of the group alongside Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, and manager J.J. Dillon.
We send our sincere condolences to the family, friends and fans of Ole Anderson.
Legendary professional wrestler Ole Anderson has sadly passed away at the age of 81. The news was confirmed by fellow wrestler Ricky Morton, who took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news.
Morton’s Instagram post read, “Rest in Paradise, Ole Anderson. You taught me so much in professional wrestling. You were tough as nails. You will be missed, my friend.” This tribute from Morton highlights the impact that Anderson had on the wrestling community and the respect he garnered from his peers.
Anderson began his wrestling career in 1967 under the ring name Rock Rogowski while working in the American Wrestling Association (AWA). In 1968, he joined Jim Crockett Promotions, where he teamed up with his kayfabe brother Gene to form the Minnesota Wrecking Crew. This tag team became immensely popular and showcased Anderson’s skills and toughness in the ring.
However, Anderson’s career took a turn when Vince McMahon acquired the majority interest in Georgia Championship Wrestling. Anderson was not in favor of the changes brought about by McMahon and decided to leave the promotion. He then went on to establish his own company called Championship Wrestling from Georgia.
Despite his success as a solo wrestler and promoter, Anderson is best known for his time as a member of the iconic Four Horsemen stable. Alongside Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, and manager J.J. Dillon, Anderson played a crucial role in establishing the group’s dominance in the wrestling world. The Four Horsemen became one of the most influential factions in professional wrestling history.
The passing of Ole Anderson is a significant loss for the wrestling community. His contributions to the sport, both as a performer and behind the scenes, will always be remembered. Anderson’s toughness, skill, and dedication to his craft made him a respected figure in the industry.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Ole Anderson during this difficult time. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of wrestling enthusiasts around the world.