21 Wrestlers Who Died In 2018

20. Johnny Valiant (4 April)

Grandmaster Sexay
WWE

Former WWE wrestler and manager John 'Johnny Valiant' Sullivan was killed in early April after being struck by a truck in his home of Ross Township, PA. He was 71 years old.

Sullivan was born on 25 November 1946 in Pittsburgh, growing up within close proximity to legendary wrestling champion Bruno Sammartino. He petitioned his neighbour for advice on how to crack into wrestling, and soon formed a close friendship that opened the doors of the industry to him.

Ten years after a successful stint in the then-WWWF during the early '70s, Sullivan - going under the moniker 'Johnny Valiant' - returned to New York, now as a manager, having previously seconded for Hulk Hogan in the AWA. Valiant accompanied Brutus Beefcake at the inguinal WrestleMania, and he'd make further appearances at the next two events, offering support for The Dream Team.

After his wrestling career wound down, Valiant turned his hand to acting, appearing on several episodes of The Sopranos and long-running serial Law & Order. He also performed a stand-up routine in New York City - to some degree of acclaim.

Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.