Van Hammer Passes Away at Age 66

Former WCW wrestler Van Hammer, real name Mark Hildreth, recently passed away at the age of 66.

Hildreth’s passing was first announced by former WWE and WCW wrestler Marc Mero on Twitter that they are still waiting on the autopsy results to determine the official cause of death for him.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of our dear friend, Mark Hildreth, known to so many as Van Hammer. At this time, we are still awaiting answers regarding the cause, pending an autopsy. Mark was a fighter in every sense of the word. Life threw its share of challenges his way, but he had a resilience about him… he always found a way to rise, to push forward, to keep going.

I have so many incredible memories with him that I’ll carry forever. We first met while he was vacationing in Venice, Florida, working out at a local gym. Not long after, I got the call from Dusty Rhodes to come to his office the next day. Mark didn’t hesitate, he drove me eight hours so I could sign my very first contract with World Championship Wrestling. That’s the kind of person he was loyal, selfless, and always there when it mattered most.

We went through wrestling school together, chased the same dream, and before long, he earned his own contract. We even lived together in Atlanta, training, grinding, and building a life around the passion we both shared. We were also chosen to help promote WCW for the United Kingdom Tour, doing countless personal appearances, television spots, and even promotional work alongside Gladys Knight. Those were unforgettable moments… times I’ll never forget.

My heart goes out to his family, his friends, and the fans who supported him throughout his journey. Rest easy, my friend. You will always be remembered.”

Hildreth’s pro wrestling career spanned from 1991 to 2009 and was most known for his time in WCW under the ring name of Van Hammer.

Hildreth worked in WCW from 1991 to 1995 and from 1997 to 2000. Hildreth’s second stint in WCW was most known for his time as being a member of Raven’s Flock stable from 1997 to the group’s disbanding in 1998. Hildreth also was known for his time with the Misfits in Action stable under the ring name of Major Stash.

Besides WCW, Hildreth also had a brief stint in WWE in 1993 and worked for Maryland Championship Wrestling and Big Japan Pro Wrestling following WCW’s closure in 2001.

Hildreth’s notable career achievements and accolades included being the winner of the Jesse Ventura Strongest Arms Arm Wrestling Tournament (1992).