Ole Anderson, the renowned wrestler, died at the age of 81 following a lengthy and influential career that lasted for generations. WWE confirmed Anderson’s passing on Monday, honoring the legendary wrestler with an online tribute and a special segment on Monday Night Raw. The group honored Anderson for being a successful and highly awarded tag team wrestler, expressing sympathy to his loved ones and supporters.
Learning from a legendary figure during training.
Originally from Minneapolis, Ole Anderson, who served in the U.S. Army, launched his wrestling journey with the mentorship of WWE Hall of Famer Verne Gagne. Anderson debuted in 1967 with the American Wrestling Association (AWA) located in Minnesota. Teaming up with his relatives Gene, Lars, and Arn Anderson, his career rapidly took off, creating the powerful “Minnesota Wrecking Crew.” They were able to control the local wrestling scene from the 1970s to the early 1980s.
WWE is saddened to learn that Ole Anderson has passed away.
WWE extends its condolences to Anderson’s family, friends, and fans. pic.twitter.com/LmG4sCKu3y
— WWE (@WWE) February 27, 2024
The Arrival of the Four Horsemen
The Andersons’ influence reached further than just their local renown. Ric Flair became part of the Anderson family as a fictional cousin, and along with Tully Blanchard, they formed the iconic faction called “The Four Horsemen.” This group vowed to introduce utter chaos to the wrestling industry and went on to become one of the most legendary factions in wrestling history.
Motivating Generations
WWE acknowledged that the group established a benchmark of style, attitude, and achievement that has motivated all subsequent stables. The Four Horsemen were famous for their extravagant way of living and their talent for provoking intense responses from supporters. They competed against top tag teams such as the Rock ‘n’ Roll Express and the Road Warriors, winning multiple NWA championships in the process.
An instructor to numerous individuals
Ricky Morton, a former NWA wrestler, honored Anderson on Instagram with a post saying, “Rest in Paradise, Ole Anderson.” I have learned a lot from you in the world of professional wrestling. You were as strong as steel. I will always remember you, my friend.
Ric Flair also showed appreciation, stating, “I will always be grateful to Ole and Gene for introducing me as a cousin to Crockett Promotions. It kickstarted my career. I will always be thankful to you for allowing me to become the person I am today.”
RIP Ole Anderson (9/22/1942 – 2/26/2024) pic.twitter.com/qF004zhhuE
— MarK Condon (マーク)☠️👿 (@BigShambowski) February 27, 2024
A Career with Many Aspects
Following his departure from The Four Horsemen in 1990, Anderson moved into a backstage position, organizing matches for World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the 1990s. In 1996, he stepped away from wrestling but stayed influential with his vocal opinions on the industry’s development. Anderson criticized the monopoly of companies like WWE in the wrestling industry in his book Inside Out: How Corporate America Destroyed Professional Wrestling.
Today in 1986: One of the greatest moments of the era. Ole Anderson is back. And it will never be over. pic.twitter.com/Y6QJ0XWd8k
— The Mid-Atlantic Championship Podcast (@MidAtlanticPod) June 14, 2024
An enduring influence
Ole Anderson was recognized for his professional wrestling contributions through inductions into the NWA and WCW Hall of Fame. Tony Schiavone, a longtime wrestling announcer, lauded Anderson as a brilliant figure in the field, highlighting his talent and influence.
