Ric Flair is expressing his gratitude after paying tribute to his longtime friend Steve “Mongo” McMichael during the May 17th episode of AEW Collision. Taking to Twitter the next day, Flair shared a heartfelt message alongside a series of photos from the tribute segment.
“Thank You @AEW & @TonyKhan For Giving Me The Opportunity To Honor Mongo During #AEWCollision! Mongo, You Will Be In Our Hearts Forever!” Flair tweeted, accompanied by images of him alongside Tony Schiavone, Dean Malenko, and Mongo’s wife, Misty McMichael.
During the tribute, Misty spoke about her husband’s legacy in football and wrestling, calling Mongo “the most special person in my life.” Schiavone and Malenko also reflected on Mongo’s career and the impact he had on both sports, while Schiavone reminded fans that May is ALS Awareness Month, a fitting nod to Mongo’s ongoing battle with the disease.
Flair then took the stage, praising Chicago as “one of the best wrestling cities ever” and recalling a moment when he lost the World Title to Ricky Steamboat in the same city. He also called Mongo “the toughest man I have ever known,” crediting Misty for staying by Mongo’s side and even learning to be his nurse as he fought ALS.
The crowd erupted in chants for Mongo, showing that his impact continues to resonate with wrestling fans everywhere.
