WWE and NJPW alumnus Killer Khan died from an aortic dissection on December 29, 2023, at the age of 76.
WWE issued the following statement on the passing of Khan:
“Masashi Ozawa “Killer Khan” passes away
WWE is saddened to learn that Masashi Ozawa, known to sports-entertainment fans as Killer Khan, passed away at age 76.
The Japanese-born competitor was an imposing figure in the ring and highlighted his career with memorable rivalries against Legends such as Bob Backlund, Pedro Morales, Andre the Giant, Hulk Hogan and more. After a brief return to WWE in 1987 with Mr. Fuji as his manager, Killer Khan would retire from sports-entertainment. Following his career in the ring, Ozawa owned a restaurant in Tokyo.
WWE extends its condolences to Ozawa’s family, friends and fans.”
Several wrestling personalities including Bully Ray, Michael Hayes, and others paid tribute to the late wrestler on social media. You can check some of the reactions below:
Rest In Peace Killer Khan…. pic.twitter.com/Bka0W4ldY1
— Brian Heffron aka The Blue Meanie (@BlueMeanieBWO) December 30, 2023
Rest in peace amigo #RIPKILLERKHAN #killerkhan @GleasonsGym @juanjeremy100 #wwe #wwf @WWEonFOX @wwe #legends #japan pic.twitter.com/E0eFQ1I5Ty
— Johnny Rodz (@rodzjohnny) December 30, 2023
When executed and done correctly.
Unlike most of the complete 💩 selling of the mist today.
RIP Killer Khan https://t.co/MMbD3mLUCo
— Bully Ray (@bullyray5150) December 30, 2023
So sorry to hear of the passing of Killer Khan.
What a great guy!!
His epic battles with Terry Gordy in WCCW will live forever!!!
Condolences, prayers for his family, friends and fans.— Michael PS Hayes (@MichaelPSHayes1) December 30, 2023
Sincere condolences to the family of KILLER KHAN (Masashi Ozawa), who passed away yesterday. From my years with the #WWF, a clip of a wild tag match w/ George Steele vs. Curt Hennig & SD Jones. Andre is involved for the finish. (aired September 5, 1981)https://t.co/8dLuiBRGOs
— Gary Michael Cappetta (@GaryCappetta) December 30, 2023
Killer Khan was a renowned WWE icon, known for his epic battles against Andre the Giant. Unfortunately, he has passed away at the age of 76. RIP KHAN. @WWE @rodzjohnny @_SgtSlaughter @Philcool27 pic.twitter.com/cU1FXlL9kl
— Louis Albano (@LouisAlbano2) December 30, 2023
RIP to the "man who broke Andre's ankle", Killer Khan. Their feud had so much notoriety that they even brought it, from NY to the Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto. Does anyone else remember the Mongolian Stretcher Match they had in Toronto? pic.twitter.com/Xplkthgen7
— Ron Hutchison (@RonHutchison1) December 30, 2023
