Steve “Mongo” McMichael, Bears Legend and Hall of Famer, Dies at 67

Steve “Mongo” McMichael, Chicago Bears Legend, Passes Away

The world of American football mourns the loss of Steve “Mongo” McMichael, a prominent member of the historic “46” defense of the Chicago Bears. McMichael, who passed away at the age of 67, left an indelible mark on the NFL and in the hearts of fans. Diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) in 2021, McMichael bravely fought the disease, demonstrating a strength of character that characterized him both on and off the field. His legacy is cemented in 13 seasons with the Bears, where he played a team record of 191 consecutive games. In total, he participated in 207 games between 1981 and 1994. McMichael was key in the 1985 Super Bowl victory and was twice selected to the All-Pro first team, in addition to participating in the Pro Bowl.

“It is a cruel irony that the Bears’ ‘Ironman’ succumbed to this dreaded disease. However, Steve showed us throughout his fight that his true strength was internal, and he demonstrated his class, dignity, and humanity daily. He is now at peace”.

George H. McCaskey, Bears chairman

On August 3, 2024, McMichael was honored by being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His bust was unveiled at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois, surrounded by his wife, daughter, and teammates from the 1985 Bears. Among those present at the tribute ceremony were former teammates such as Richard Dent, Ron Rivera, and Mike Singletary, who remembered McMichael’s importance to the team. During the ceremony in Canton, Ohio, a pre-recorded message from McMichael was broadcast, where he expressed his desire to be remembered for his performance on the field. “I don’t want ALS to be my legacy. What I did on the field, that is my legacy.” McMichael, who was nominated for the Hall of Fame in 2014 and 2015, finally achieved his deserved recognition thanks to the Hall of Fame’s senior committee and the support of his wife, Misty, who fought tirelessly for her husband to be honored. In 2023, McMichael had signed a “do not resuscitate” document, but upon learning of his nomination, he requested that it be withdrawn, demonstrating his fighting spirit.

“We will never know a stronger fighter. He was also the sweetest man I have ever known”.

Betsy Shepherd, McMichael’s publicist

McMichael, who stood out for his 92.5 sacks with the Bears, and played in a team record of 191 consecutive games, obtained at least seven sacks in seven consecutive seasons. He won a Super Bowl with the 1985 Bears. During the 1985 regular season, McMichael recorded eight sacks and one additional in Super Bowl XX against the Patriots. He was selected to the All-Pro first team and was instrumental in a defense that led the league in points and yards allowed, as well as ball recoveries. With 95 sacks in his career, 847 tackles, 13 forced fumbles, 17 fumble recoveries, 2 interceptions and 3 safeties, McMichael was a key player for the Bears, despite being in the shadow of other prominent players like Singletary and Dent. Coach Mike Ditka described him as the toughest player he coached. After retiring from the Bears, McMichael finished his career with the Packers in 1994. Before his NFL success, McMichael played at the University of Texas, where he was named All-America and left the university record in tackles (369) and sacks (30). He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010.

NFL video about Steve McMichael

After his career in American football, McMichael had a successful run as a professional wrestler in WCW, where he won the United States Heavyweight Championship as a member of the “Four Horsemen” group. McMichael, who was known as “Ming The Merciless” and “Mongo”, remained a prominent figure in Chicago after his sports retirement. Jim Porter, President and CEO of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, stated: “Steve McMichael told everyone that he would fight ALS with the same tenacity he showed for 15 seasons in the National Football League. And he did.”