Kevin Sullivan, a professional wrestler who built an image and considerable fame in the 1980s and 1990s as a diabolical villain in KISS-style makeup who took on good guys including Hulk Hogan and Dusty Rhodes, has died. He was 74.
Kevin Sullivan Prince of Darkness Disc 1
His death was announced today by World Wrestling Entertainment. No details were provided, but Sullivan had been ill for the past few months.
"WWE is saddened to learn that Kevin Sullivan has passed away at the age of 74," the organization's statement read. "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 continued: "As a villain, Sullivan was a formidable rival to some of the ring's most legendary heroes, including Dusty Rhodes, Hulk Hogan and The Road Warriors. He specialized in leading dangerous factions, including his evil Army of Darkness, collegiate bullies The Varsity Club and the wild Dungeon of Doom, which introduced Big Show to the wrestling world. The former 'Taskmaster' also became a behind-the-scenes creative force for WCW."
