Former WWWF Champion Ivan Koloff Has Passed Away

We are saddened to report the passing of Ivan Koloff. He was 74 and succumbed after a battle with liver cancer.

“The Russian Bear” is perhaps best known for defeating Bruno Sammartino at Madison Square Garden and ending Sammartino’s 8-year run with the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship.

Here are some reactions from the wrestling world to the passing of Ivan Koloff.

RIP

I'm hopeful @WWE recognizes the passing of #IvanKoloff on #RAW plus recognition at #WWEHOF feels warranted. #RIPIvanKoloff

— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) February 18, 2017

A fierce competitor in the ring who was able to anger (and excite!) fans worldwide. RIP to one of best villains in our business, Ivan Koloff pic.twitter.com/ErPvsInV4o

— Triple H (@TripleH) February 18, 2017

One day after George Steele, now Ivan Koloff has passed away. Rest in Peace Uncle Ivan, a great wrestler and person. #RIP

— Jim Cornette (@TheJimCornette) February 18, 2017

https://twitter.com/lancestorm/status/832994704023097344

RIP to Ivan "The Russian Bear" Koloff. He was the first major star I was ever in the ring with.… https://t.co/m7PyzfDRmd

— Hurricane Helms (@ShaneHelmsCom) February 18, 2017

I'm Sad To Wake Up And Hear of the passing of my very close friend the Russian Bear Ivan Koloff. You will be missed My Friend. Rest In Peace pic.twitter.com/nziKZ2Zqy4

— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) February 18, 2017

Regardless of why, Ivan beat Bruno in the Garden.

NOBODY beats Bruno in the Garden.

Thats a ? HEEL.

RIP #IvanKoloff

— Bully Ray (@bullyray5150) February 18, 2017

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

We've lost yet another. RIP Ivan Koloff. #RussianBear

— ? Frankie Kazarian ? (@FrankieKazarian) February 18, 2017

BEFORE THERE WAS IRON SHEIK THERE WAS IVAN KOLOFF. HERE WITH MY BROTHER NIKOLAI. HE MAKE THE GARDEN SHAKE. RIP BROTHER pic.twitter.com/4q4SIVcb0u

— The Iron Sheik (@the_ironsheik) February 18, 2017