===INTRO:===
The Von Erich family, known for their significant contributions to professional wrestling, has left a legacy that continues to influence the industry even today. However, their family story is also marked by tragedy, with five of the six Von Erich brothers having tragically passed away. This article will seek to understand who among the Von Erich clan is still alive, while also reflecting on their survival legacy within the professional wrestling universe.
Evaluating the Von Erich Lineage: A Question of Survival
The Von Erich family, led by patriarch Fritz Von Erich, dominated the wrestling scene, specifically within the World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW) promotion, a promotion that Fritz himself owned. Among Fritz’s six sons, five became professional wrestlers – David, Kerry, Mike, Chris, and Kevin. Each son had their own unique wrestling style and persona that elevated the family’s status within the industry. However, this seemingly blessed lineage was marred by tragedy as David, Mike, Chris, and Kerry each met untimely, and often tragic, ends.
David Von Erich, the eldest of the wrestling brothers, was destined to be a major star within the industry. However, his life was cut short during a tour in Japan due to acute enteritis at the age of 25. Both Mike and Chris suffered from personal and health issues which ultimately led to their respective suicides. Kerry, perhaps the most famous of the Von Erich brothers due to his NWA World Heavyweight Championship win, also took his life after years of battling drug addiction. These losses resulted in a shadow being cast over the Von Erich name, leading many to talk of a ‘Von Erich curse’.
The Living Legacy: Determining the Last Von Erich Standing
Against the backdrop of these family tragedies, one Von Erich has managed to survive – Kevin Von Erich. Kevin, second eldest of the brothers, is the last surviving son of Fritz Von Erich and the sole keeper of the Von Erich legacy. Despite retiring from wrestling in 1993, Kevin’s impact on the industry remains significant. His high-flying style and signature Iron Claw technique are still remembered by fans to this day.
However, it’s not just through Kevin that the Von Erich legacy lives on in the wrestling world. Kevin’s sons, Ross and Marshall, have followed in their family’s footsteps, becoming professional wrestlers themselves. They carry the Von Erich name into the 21st century, ensuring that their family’s wrestling legacy continues to resonate with fans across generations. They represent a new era of Von Erichs – one that, they hope, will be free from the tragedies that have plagued their family history.
===OUTRO:===
In conclusion, while the Von Erich family’s history is tinged with tragedy, their wrestling legacy remains undiminished. Kevin Von Erich, the sole surviving son, along with his own sons Ross and Marshall, continue to carry the family torch, ensuring the Von Erich name remains synonymous with wrestling. They stand as a testament to the enduring power of the Von Erich legacy despite the adversities faced. The Von Erich story, while filled with sorrow, is also one of survival and perseverance — a tale of a family that continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling.