Original Four Horsemen member Ole Anderson dead at 81

Pro wrestling legend Ole Anderson passed away on Monday, friends and family announced.

He was 81 years old.

Anderson, real name Alan Rogowski, is best known for his role as one of the members of the original Four Horsemen faction.

The group consisted of Anderson, Arn Anderson, Ric Flair, and Tully Blanchard.

He is considered one of the biggest heels, and Anderson was widely respected for his work in the business.

“Ole Anderson’s death is a somber moment for the wrestling world.” former wrestler Ricky Morton wrote on Instagram. “Ole was more than just a colleague. He was a formidable opponent, a respected veteran, and a part of wrestling history. Our struggles in the ring were fierce, and our The memories we made together will be cherished forever.

Morton continued, “While his death leaves a void in the wrestling world, Ole Anderson’s legacy will live on through the impact he had on the sport and the memories he shared with fans and fellow wrestlers. ” he added.

The Horsemen competed in Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling and then World Championship Wrestling and were one of the most legendary groups in professional wrestling history.

“I am forever grateful to Ole and Gene for bringing me into Crockett Promotions as my cousins,” Flair wrote in X. I will be forever grateful to you for giving me the opportunity to become who I am today. We didn’t always agree with each other, but honestly to God, you and Jean started me. Rest in peace, my friend! ”

Anderson retired from the ring in 1987, but returned in 1989 to reform the Horsemen and retired shortly thereafter.