February 27, 2024, 2:55 p.m. ET
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Ole Anderson, a professional wrestler whose tough, no-nonsense style made him a founding member of the famed collective The Four Horsemen, has died, the WWE said. He was 81.
Anderson's death was announced Monday on the wrestling organization's website, which described Anderson's in-ring approach as stubborn and his demeanor as abrasive.
Anderson gained this reputation early in his career as a tag team champion, alongside partners who were considered relatives, including Arn Anderson. They gained notoriety as a tag team called The Minnesota Wrecking Crew, WWE said.
WWE is saddened to learn that Ole Anderson has passed away.
WWE extends its condolences to Anderson's family, friends and fans. pic.twitter.com/LmG4sCKu3y
– WWE (@WWE) February 27, 2024
I am forever grateful to Ole and Gene for inviting me to Crockett Promotions as a cousin. It launched my career. I will forever be grateful to you for giving me the chance to become who I am today. We haven't always agreed, but the truth that is honest with God is you… pic.twitter.com/bYinfeWhKp
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) February 26, 2024
The pair later joined forces with Ric Flair and Tully Blanchard in the 1980s to form The Four Horsemen, led by manager JJ Dillon in the NWA wrestling organization. They fought some of the biggest names in wrestling, including Dusty Rhodes, the Road Warriors, Magnum TA and Sting, who later became a member of the four-man team.
“The group set a standard for style, attitude and success that has inspired every stable that followed,” the WWE said of The Four Horsemen.