The Mysterious Demise: The Untold Story of Mike Von Erich's Death
Discover the heart-wrenching tale of Mike Von Erich, the reluctant wrestler who suffered a tragic fate Uncover the untold details of his coma and the gripping events that ultimately led to his untimely demise
Fritz Von Erich encouraged his sons to pursue a career in wrestling, and The Iron Claw reveals the tragic story of Mike Von Erich's untimely death. Despite his father's strong push for the Von Erich family to achieve wrestling fame, Mike was not passionate about becoming a professional wrestler like his brothers.
Despite being extremely supportive, Fritz's true passion lied elsewhere - in music. However, his overbearing nature and obsession with his sons led Mike down a troubled path that became entwined with the family's supposed curse. This emotional film depicts a tragic tale that closely mirrors real life but with a few alterations. The following details the heartbreaking demise of Mike Von Erich. Warning: Spoilers ahead!
Mike Von Erich was in a coma
The Iron Claw details the real life story of Mike Von Erich’s death being the cause of an overdose and dying by suicide.
YouTube/VICE TV
David never harbored any ambition to pursue a wrestling career, unlike his brothers who possessed a more athletic physique. Instead, he harbored a deep passion for music and aspired to work behind the camera for his father's wrestling business. Even his brothers understood that he was better suited behind the scenes rather than in the ring.
Following David's death, Fritz urged Mike to step into the ring with Kerry and Kevin in order to uphold the family legacy. Despite being trained by Kevin, Mike's skills were not as refined as his brothers'. The tragic tale of the Iron Claw unfolds when he sustains an injury during what is believed to be his first match.
After undergoing routine shoulder surgery, the surgeon delivers grim news to Fritz and Kevin. During the operation, Mike's temperature remained at a life-threatening 107 degrees, causing him to fall into a coma. The narrative then fast-forwards to Mike's recuperation and a hospital press conference almost identical to the previous one. It is unveiled that Mike has suffered brain damage as a result of a high fever, and has been diagnosed with toxic shock syndrome.
The Iron Claw takes liberties with the events leading to his death, with Mike feeling pressure from his father to return to the ring despite Kevin's concerns. As time passes, Mike struggles with mental health issues while trying to live up to his brothers' legacy, ultimately leading to his tragic overdose and passing. This mirrors the real-life story, where Mike's injury occurred during a tour in Israel after years of wrestling, followed by a struggle with toxic shock syndrome and a return to the ring.
Struggling with the burden of taking over the family business, he sank into despair and turned to drugs. Tragically, on April 12, 1987, Mike, just 23 years old, succumbed to an overdose of the tranquilizer Placidyl. His body was discovered in a densely wooded area, surrounded by his sleeping bag. For more TV and movie content, click here, and check out Dexerto's review of The Iron Claw.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate wrestling fan, I am deeply saddened by the tragic story of Mike Von Erich, as revealed in the documentary "The Iron Claw." It is heartbreaking to learn that Mike, despite his lack of passion for wrestling, was pressured by his father, Fritz Von Erich, to pursue a career in the sport. This pressure, combined with the tragic events that unfolded, including his injury, coma, and subsequent mental health struggles, ultimately led to his untimely demise.
Mike's story is a poignant reminder of the immense pressure that can be placed on athletes, particularly those from prominent sporting families. The expectation to live up to a family legacy can be overwhelming and detrimental to one's mental and emotional well-being. It is crucial for individuals to be allowed to pursue their own passions and interests, rather than being forced into a path that may not align with their true desires.
