Wrestling legend “The Russian Bear” Ivan Koloff (real name Oreal Perras) has passed away at the age of 74. Koloff had been battling liver disease in recent years. Last week, his daughter said he was close to having liver failure.
Koloff is best known for ending Bruno Sammartino’s nearly eight-year reign as WWWF champion in 1971.
Our condolences go out to Koloff’s family and friends. Several wrestlers including Tommy Dreamer have already given condolences online.
One of the greatest bad guys of all time@IKoloff
Amazing wrestler held @WWE & every regional title
Prayers for his family#RussianBear pic.twitter.com/nQTvItMN9J— Tommy Dreamer (@THETOMMYDREAMER) February 18, 2017