Killer Khan Passes Away at 76 – New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) shared the heartbreaking news of the passing of Masashi Ozawa, better known to old school pro wrestling fans as Killer Khan.

Reports from local media indicate that Khan, 76, collapsed at his bar and was swiftly rushed to a hospital, but tragically, he couldn’t be revived.

The official cause of death for this legendary figure, who left an indelible mark not only in NJPW but also in WWE alongside iconic names like Andre the Giant and Hulk Hogan, was reported as a ruptured artery.

During his career, Killer Khan carved a memorable path in wrestling, leaving a lasting impact on fans and peers alike. His contributions to the sport will always be remembered and cherished.

In this time of grief, our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends, and fans mourning the loss of Masashi “Killer Khan” Ozawa.

Here is a quick bio, thanks to NJPW site:

After training in sumo in the famed Kasukano stable, Ozawa joined the JWA in January 1971. Standing at an imposing 195 cm (6’6”), hopes were high for him as a prospect when he joined New Japan Pro-Wrestling in 1973. In 1978 on excursion to Mexico he transformed himself into a Mongolian inspired persona that sparked a hugely successful campaign in America in 1979 as Killer Khan.

Khan transitioned into the WWF in 1980, and after a famous knee drop that put Andre the Giant on the injured list with an injured right leg, instantly found himself the top heel in the organization, with big matches against Hulk Hogan ensuing. 

On his return to NJPW he was in the top flight as he had been overseas, with an influence felt today- particuarly in the Mongolian Chops used in the years to come by Hiroyoshi Tenzan, Great-O-Khan and others. 

In April 1982, the fifth MSG Series saw Antonio Inoki forced to withdraw with a right knee injury. Inoki nominated Khan to take his place in the final with Andre, and the result was a thrilling match that saw Khan advanced in status even in defeat. 

In 1983, Khan joined Riki Choshu in Choshu’s influential Ishingun faction. From there, he would follow Choshu to Japan Pro-Wrestling in 1985, wrestling in the All Japan ring as a result as well as back in the WWF. Khan retired from pro-wrestling in November 1987 in New Jersey before running numerous bars and restaurants in Tokyo. 

New Japan Pro-Wrestling sends it’s deepest sympathies to Killer Khan’s family, friends and fans.

Killer Khan Passes Away at 76