Mike Von Erich, born Michael Brett Addison on March 2, 1964, was an American professional wrestler and a member of the famous Von Erich wrestling family. Unlike his brothers, Mike did not dream of becoming a wrestler. He originally wanted to work behind the scenes in music and production.

However, his father, Fritz Von Erich, pushed him to enter professional wrestling to keep the family legacy alive. Mike struggled in the ring and often felt pressure to live up to the Von Erich name. His health problems made things worse. In 1985, he suffered toxic shock syndrome after shoulder surgery, which affected both his physical and mental health.

Mike’s personal struggles continued, and he became deeply depressed. Sadly, his life ended when he died by suicide on April 12, 1987, at the age of 23. His death added to the tragic history of the Von Erich family and remains one of wrestling’s most heartbreaking stories.

Mike’s Early Life and Family

Michael Brett Addison, known as Mike Von Erich, was born on March 2, 1964, in Dallas, Texas. He was part of the famous Von Erich wrestling family. His father, Fritz Von Erich, was a well-known wrestler and promoter. His brothers David, Kerry, Kevin, and Chris also became professional wrestlers.

Unlike his brothers, Mike did not want to wrestle at first. He preferred working behind the scenes as a cameraman for his father’s promotion, World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW). Mike also loved music and enjoyed playing the guitar. His real dream was to become a guitarist, not a wrestler.

Personal life

Mike Von Erich married Shani Garza on February 14, 1985. After shoulder surgery in August 1985, he developed toxic shock syndrome, which caused serious health problems. He lost weight and struggled to perform and speak clearly in the ring. His depression worsened, leading to drug and alcohol abuse and erratic behavior. Injuries from a 1986 car accident made things worse. Mike also faced heavy pressure to replace his late brother David, which deeply affected his mental state.

Mike Von Erich’s Health Tragedy

In 1985, Mike Von Erich had shoulder surgery that led to toxic shock syndrome, a rare and life-threatening illness. His fever rose to 107°F (42°C), and he suffered brain damage, kidney failure, and lung problems. He was placed in intensive care, remained unconscious for long periods, and needed a respirator and hemodialysis.

Although he survived, the illness caused lasting physical and mental damage. His behavior became erratic, and his depression deepened. Pressure to return to wrestling too soon made his condition worse and played a major role in his tragic decline.

Mike Von Erich Net Worth

Mike Von Erich’s net worth was never publicly disclosed.
At the time of his death in 1987, his estimated net worth was modest, likely under $1 million.

He was early in his wrestling career and did not earn as much as his more famous brothers. His long health issues also limited his time in the ring and reduced his income.

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