Van Hammer Passes Away
Mark Ty Hildreth, better known to wrestling fans as Van Hammer, has passed away. He was 66.
Marc Mero announced the news on social media.
Van was best known for his time in WCW where he competed from 1991 to 1995 before taking a brief hiatus to set up a 1997 return. He was part of The Flock and the Misfits In Action.
He made his debut in 1991 at WCW Clash of the Champions and last competed in 2009.
From Mero:
It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of our dear friend, Mark Hildreth, known to so many as Van Hammer. At this time, we are still awaiting answers regarding the cause, pending an autopsy.
Mark was a fighter in every sense of the word. Life threw its share of challenges his way, but he had a resilience about him… he always found a way to rise, to push forward, to keep going.
I have so many incredible memories with him that I’ll carry forever. We first met while he was vacationing in Venice, Florida, working out at a local gym. Not long after, I got the call from Dusty Rhodes to come to his office the next day. Mark didn’t hesitate, he drove me eight hours so I could sign my very first contract with World Championship Wrestling. That’s the kind of person he was loyal, selfless, and always there when it mattered most.
We went through wrestling school together, chased the same dream, and before long, he earned his own contract. We even lived together in Atlanta, training, grinding, and building a life around the passion we both shared. We were also chosen to help promote WCW for the United Kingdom Tour, doing countless personal appearances, television spots, and even promotional work alongside Gladys Knight. Those were unforgettable moments… times I’ll never forget.
My heart goes out to his family, his friends, and the fans who supported him throughout his journey. Rest easy, my friend. You will always be remembered.
It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of our dear friend, Mark Hildreth, known to so many as Van Hammer. At this time, we are still awaiting answers regarding the cause, pending an autopsy.
Mark was a fighter in every sense of the word. Life threw its share of… pic.twitter.com/Tb7d0zQtJr
— Marc Mero (@MarcMero) April 19, 2026
Fightful since condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Hammer.
