RIP Leon White (aka Big Van Vader)

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Prior to his wrestling career, White played college football at the University of Colorado and was drafted in the third round of the 1978 NFL draft by the Los Angeles Rams. During his brief NFL career, White played offensive line and was a member of the 1979 team that lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XIV.

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Shortly after retiring from the NFL, White picked up professional wrestling, joining the AWA before a successful run with New Japan Pro Wrestling. During his time with NJPW, White was given the name “Big Van Vader” and wrestled in a mask, which would become staples of his character for his entire career.

White’s blend of size and athleticism made him one of the most unique wrestling stars in the 80s and 90s, leading to him feuding with the likes of Ric Flair, Mick Foley, Sting, Shawn Michaels and the Undertaker.

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White detailed his health issues to that point which included 45 surgeries, 19 concussions and being in a coma for 33 days in Japan.

Despite battling a drinking problem and those health issues, White continued to wrestle and made appearances for several promotions, including sporadic returns to WWE, until 2017.

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