– As many of you know by now, Ivan Koloff passed away over the weekend at the age of 74 after battling liver cancer. WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley posted the following on Koloff ’s passing on his Facebook page:
“A GREAT LOSS FOR WRESTLING
The wrestling world lost a true legend with the death of Ivan Koloff today. More importantly, we lost one of it’s finest gentlemen, a truly kind soul whose warmth and caring belied the gruff and rugged “Russian Bear” persona that had made him one of wrestling’s great heels, and earned him the nickname “Uncle Ivan” to so many who knew him within the business.
Just yesterday, at a panel for Pensacola’s Pensacon Convention, I was asked how I wanted to be remembered. I told a story about rooming with Ivan Koloff, getting to spend time with one of the all-time greats – a former WWF champion; the man who ended Bruno Samartino’s seven year title reign -!and vividly thinking “if I ever get to a position where I am a big star, THIS is how I want to treat people, because I like how being treated this way feels.” It’s one thing – a very admirable thing – to inspire others to become a better wrestler. But, by the example he set, Ivan Koloff did something far more admirable; he made me want to be a better man. Rest peace, Uncle Ivan. You will be greatly missed.”
– Here is the latest WWE Top 10 video that looks at the greatest tag team finishers.
