WCW Legend Van Hammer Dies at 66
Mark Hildreth, better known to fans as Van Hammer, has died at 66. His passing was announced by Marc Mero on Sunday, April 19, 2026. Mero said an autopsy is pending to determine the cause of death.
Career and ring persona
Hildreth served in the United States Navy before turning to wrestling. He trained under Boris Malenko in the early 1990s.
He first gained attention in WCW as the “Heavy Metal” Van Hammer. The character was pared down by the mid-1990s as his presentation evolved.
Stables and later roles
In late 1997, Hildreth joined Raven’s Flock. After that group dissolved, he shifted to a more hippie-style persona.
He became part of the Misfits in Action in 2000 and competed as Major Stash. After WCW folded, he worked for Maryland Championship Wrestling.
Hildreth also toured with Big Japan Pro Wrestling in the fall of 2001.
Relationship with Marc Mero and WCW beginnings
Mero recalled meeting Hildreth while the latter vacationed in Venice, Florida. The two connected while training at a local gym.
Mero said Hildreth drove him eight hours after Dusty Rhodes asked him to visit WCW offices. That trip led to Mero signing his first WCW contract.
The pair trained together, lived in Atlanta, and promoted WCW on a United Kingdom tour. They also did television and appearance work, including spots with Gladys Knight.
Reactions from the wrestling community
Messages of sympathy and memories poured in online on April 19, 2026. Colleagues described Hildreth as loyal and resilient.
- Marc Mero shared personal recollections and confirmed an autopsy is pending.
- Juice Springsteen highlighted Van Hammer’s distinctive early-1990s look and brawls with Cactus Jack.
- Book Pro Wrestlers and other accounts offered condolences to family and fans.
Fans mourn a WCW legend. Van Hammer has died at the age of 66, leaving many memories from his varied career.
Filmogaz.com sends condolences to Hildreth’s family, friends, and fans. Further updates will follow as more details become available.
