The wrestling world is reeling from the loss of Kevin Sullivan, a titan of the squared circle and the mastermind behind some of the most unforgettable moments in professional wrestling history. On Friday morning, it was confirmed that Sullivan, the former head booker of World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the man with one of the most creative minds in the business, passed away at the age of 74. Sullivan had been battling health issues in recent months, leading his daughter, Nicole, to start a GoFundMe to help cover his medical expenses. His passing has prompted an outpouring of love and memories from his peers, proving just how deeply Sullivan’s influence ran through the veins of the wrestling industry.
Ric Flair was among the first to pay tribute to his old friend and rival. Just a day before Sullivan’s passing, Flair had praised him as “one of the most brilliant minds” in wrestling, crediting Sullivan as a key player in WCW’s dominance during the Monday Night Wars. Following the news, Flair posted on X, “I am so saddened to hear about Kevin Sullivan’s passing. Rest In Peace Kevin! You were an all-time great athlete & friend.”
Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) shared a heartfelt memory, reflecting on his last conversation with Sullivan after hearing of his declining health. “This one hit me really hard,” DDP wrote. “Sully was a huge part of my life. Yes, we had our ups and the downs, but like so many of our brothers over the years, we really grew to love each other. I’m so glad I got to talk to him before he left this planet. Thanks, @RicFlairNatrBoy.”
Eric Bischoff, who worked closely with Sullivan during WCW’s final years, expressed his sadness on X as well. “Woke up to the news of Kevin Sullivan’s passing. This one hits hard,” Bischoff wrote. “Last time we spoke, we talked about taking a fishing trip. Kevin loved the water. Kevin was talented, loyal, and had instincts that made him a valuable partner. I will miss him.”
Marc Mero, a former WCW World Television Champion, fondly recalled his five-year tenure with Sullivan both in the ring and behind the scenes, calling it a “pleasure.” Similarly, AEW executive Christopher Daniels paid his respects, noting how fortunate he felt to have briefly worked with Sullivan. “Thank you for your influence and input on my journey,” Daniels tweeted.
Sullivan’s impact wasn’t limited to WCW. He was a major force in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) territories during the 1970s, 80s, and early 90s. He was honored for his contributions with an induction into the NWA Hall of Fame, alongside names like Adam Pearce. Pearce took to social media to share a photo of himself with Sullivan, both holding their Hall of Fame plaques. “Whether in front of or behind the camera, your contributions to our industry are without question,” Pearce wrote. “Grateful for the times we shared, your advice, and kindness. Honored to have gone into the @nwa HOF together. Rest well, sir.”
Former WWE and WCW star Dutch Mantel shared a nostalgic photo of himself wrestling Sullivan on the independent circuit in the early 1980s, with Jimmy Hart in the background. “RIP Kevin,” Mantel captioned the photo, noting the smoky haze of cigarettes that were still allowed indoors at the time.
WWE’s Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque also joined the chorus of tributes, tweeting, “Kevin Sullivan had one of the most unique minds in the history of our industry, pushing creative boundaries and developing some of the most intriguing characters to step into the ring. He had an unwavering passion for what we do. My thoughts are with his family, friends & fans.”
The wrestling community continues to pour out its love for Sullivan, with tributes from Bully Ray, Matt Cardona, Simon Miller, Pollo Del Mar, and Jake “The Snake” Roberts who described Sullivan as an “incredible mind,” but an even greater person.
Kevin Sullivan’s legacy will live on, not just in the memories of those who knew him but in the countless fans who enjoyed the stories he crafted and the legends he helped to create. Rest in peace, Taskmaster.