Getty Image / Michael Minardi
Each year, Super Bowl week means a new group of Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees are announced. Last week was no different, as Super Bowl LVIII ushered in a new class of Hall of Famers.
One of those was Chicago Bears legendary defensive tackle and former pro wrestler. Steve McMichael. But, health complications have landed the former superstar in the hospital just days after his selection was announced.
Steve McMichael suffers from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), otherwise known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He announced his diagnosis in 2021, and his condition has unfortunately deteriorated significantly.
McMichael was unable to make a public appearance during last week’s Super Bowl LVIII events. His wife, Misty, was in his stead.
Sadly, McMichael has been admitted to the hospital with complications relating to his ALS. Here is the New York Post with more.
Here’s ABC7 Chicago with more.
Chicago Bears legend and football Hall of Famer Steve “Mongo” McMichael, who has been battling ALS, has been hospitalized and is being admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, his family said Thursday night.
McMichael was recently announced as part of the latest class of inductees for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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A spokesperson for the family said he was taken to Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox with a fever. He was also very lethargic, the spokesperson said.While the family initially said McMichael was taken to the hospital with suspected pneumonia, they released a statement shortly before 8:30 p.m. saying he had an infection instead.
“Steve is fighting a Urinary Tract Infection,” the family wrote. “He is on three antibiotics and is being admitted to the ICU this evening. Continued prayers are appreciated for Steve’s speedy recovery. Thank you!”
McMichael, known as Mongo, was an absolute legend in Chicago. The two-time All-Pro selection finished his career with 95 sacks before embarking on an illustrious pro wrestling career.
According to ABC7 Chicago, the NFL has pledged to cover all expenses relating to getting McMichael to his induction ceremony this summer if he’s healthy enough to travel.
Heal up soon, Mongo!