Mike Von Erich

Mike Von Erich

ABOUT

Michael Brett Adkisson, widely recognized by his ring name Mike Von Erich, was an American professional wrestler born on March 2, 1964, in Dallas, Texas. He was a member of the iconic Von Erich family, known for their significant contributions to the wrestling industry, particularly through their involvement with World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW). Despite a career marred by personal turmoil and health issues, Mike's tenure in the ring left an indelible mark on professional wrestling in the 1980s.

BEFORE FAME

Mike Von Erich was born into wrestling pedigree, being the son of Fritz Von Erich, a prominent wrestler and promoter, and Doris Adkisson. Growing up in a family where wrestling was a way of life, Mike gravitated towards the sport naturally. Unlike his brothers, Mike initially didn't seem destined for the ring but eventually embraced the legacy, debuting in 1983 after the untimely death of his brother David Von Erich. His entry into wrestling was seen as a way to honor David's memory and continue the family legacy.

TRIVIA

• Mike Von Erich's wrestling career was significantly impacted by a shoulder injury sustained in 1985, which led to toxic shock syndrome due to complications from surgery. This illness drastically affected his health and in-ring performance.
• Despite his challenges, Mike managed to capture multiple championships, including the NWA American Heavyweight Championship and the NWA World Six-Man Tag Team Championship alongside his brothers.
• Mike's life and career were subjects of interest in the wrestling community, contributing to the storied and often tragic legacy of the Von Erich family.

FAMILY LIFE

Mike Von Erich was one of six sons of Fritz and Doris Adkisson. The Von Erichs are known for their profound impact on professional wrestling but also for the personal tragedies that befell the family. Mike's brothers Kerry, Kevin, David, Chris, and Jack all had varying degrees of involvement in wrestling. The Von Erich family's story is one of triumph and tragedy, deeply intertwining their lives with the world of professional wrestling.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Mike Von Erich worked closely with his siblings, especially Kevin and Kerry Von Erich. Together, they formed various tag team combinations and participated in memorable storylines in WCCW. Outside his immediate family, Mike interacted with several prominent wrestlers of his time, contributing to his era's rich wrestling history. His life and career were celebrated and mourned by peers and fans alike following his untimely death on April 12, 1987.

The trajectory of Mike's wrestling career highlights the deep interconnection between personal challenges and professional life in the world of wrestling. His story is an integral chapter in the narrative of the Von Erich family's legacy within the sport.