Kevin Sullivan Dies: Pro Wrestling’s “Prince Of Darkness” Who Feuded With Hulk Hogan Was 74
deadline.comKevin Sullivan, a pro wrestler who built a persona and considerable fame in the 1980s and ’90s as a devilish villain in KISS-like make-up who battled good guys including Hulk Hogan and Dusty Rhodes, has died.
He was 74. His death was announced today by World Wrestling Entertainment. No details were provided, but Sullivan had been in ill health in recent months. “WWE is saddened to learn Kevin Sullivan has passed away at age 74,” the organization’s statement reads. “A unique and influential figure in sports-entertainment history, Sullivan found success both in the ring and behind the scenes with his penchant for far out ideas that pushed creative boundaries.” The statement continues, “As a villain, Sullivan was a major rival for the ring’s most legendary heroes, including Dusty Rhodes, Hulk Hogan and The Road Warriors.
He specialized in leading dangerous factions, which included his wicked Army of Darkness, collegiate bullies The Varsity Club, and the wild Dungeon of Doom, which introduced Big Show to the wrestling world.
The onetime ‘Taskmaster’ also became a creative force behind the scenes for WCW.” Born October 26, 1949, in Boston, Sullivan was an amateur wrestler in his hometown during the 1970s, quickly turning pro under the name Johnny West.
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