AceShowbiz - Kevin Sullivan, the iconic professional wrestler who performed as the Taskmaster, has died at 74. The cause of death has not been officially released. However, Sullivan suffered a "devastating accident" on May 12 in Florida, leading to emergency surgery and subsequent complications, including sepsis and encephalitis, according to a family-created GoFundMe campaign.

Sullivan began his wrestling career in the 1970s, capturing tag team championships in the National Wrestling Alliance. In the 1980s, he cultivated his Prince of Darkness heel persona, which incorporated dark occultist aesthetics. Sullivan later joined Jim Crockett Productions (later WCW) and became renowned for leading dangerous factions, such as the Varsity Club and the Dungeon of Doom. He also formed alliances with Cactus Jack and Buzz Sawyer, creating Sullivan's Slaughterhouse.

Sullivan's rivalry with Hulk Hogan, Dusty Rhodes and The Road Warriors during WCW's heyday solidified his status as a legendary villain. As the Taskmaster, he feuded with Hogan's Hulkamaniacs and faced off against the Four Horsemen. After his retirement in 1997, Sullivan transitioned to booking and held the position of head booker for WCW in 2000.

Tributes have poured in from the wrestling community, including Ric Flair, Jake Roberts a.k.a. The Snake and Triple H. Flair expressed his mourning on social media, while Roberts praised Sullivan's incredible mind for the business. Triple H acknowledged Sullivan's unique creativity and unwavering passion for the sport.

Kevin Sullivan will be remembered as a visionary, storyteller and influential figure in the history of professional wrestling. His legacy will continue to inspire and captivate fans for generations to come.