UPDATE: WWE.com has posted the following on the passing of Maurice ‘Mad Dog’ Vachon…
“Reports indicate that WWE Hall of Famer Maurice “Mad Dog” Vachon has passed away. A true original, Vachon made a name for himself in the AWA, becoming a five-time World Heavyweight Champion. His unorthodox style made him one of the most brutal and feared competitors of all time. He joined WWE in 1984 – 34 years into his career – before retiring in 1986. His legacy is immeasurable and was solidified when he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2010.
Our deepest condolences go out to Vachon’s family, friends and fans.”
ORIGINAL: According to SLAM! Wrestling, WWE Hall of Famer Maurice ‘Mad Dog’ Vachon passed away this morning at the age of 84. Vachon has been in poor health for years. His brother, Paul ‘The Butcher’ Vachon, confirmed the death with SLAM! Wrestling.
On behalf of everyone here on the website, I would like to extend our condolences to the family, friends and fans of Mr. Vachon.
The following is an article from SLAM! Wrestling:
Maurice “Mad Dog” Vachon, one of the greatest heels of all-time and a former Canadian Olympic wrestler, passed away this morning at 4 a.m. in Omaha, Nebraska. He was 84 years of age.
He had been in poor health for many years, much of it stemming from a 1987 hit-and-run accident, where Vachon was struck by a driver, which resulted in the amputation of his leg. Most recently, he battled memory issues.
Mad Dog’s brother and long-time tag team partner, Paul “The Butcher” Vachon, confirmed the death.
“This is not a pleasure call,” said Paul Vachon. “I just wanted to call and let you know first that my brother Mad Dog passed away this morning.”
“It was very peaceful,” said Maurice’s wife, Kathie, of his passing. She will know more about funeral arrangements later this afternoon; she expects the funeral to take place early next week in Nebraska.
We will have more on the death of the legendary Mad Dog Vachon as the day goes on.
