The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Mark Hildreth, better known to fans as Van Hammer, following news shared by Marc Mero.
Mero confirmed the passing in a heartfelt post on X, noting that the official cause of death is still pending an autopsy. In his tribute, he remembered Hildreth as a resilient and loyal friend who stood by him during the early days of their careers, even driving eight hours to help him secure his first contract with World Championship Wrestling.
“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,” Mero wrote.
“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.”
Vam Hammer’s pro wrestling journey
Hildreth’s journey into wrestling came after serving in the U.S. Navy. Trained by Boris Malenko and Dan Spivey, he made his WCW debut in 1991 at Clash of the Champions XVI, quickly establishing himself with a dominant win over Terrance Taylor.
Portrayed as the guitar-slinging “Heavy Metal” Van Hammer, he gained attention for his rock-inspired persona and impressive undefeated streak, which was eventually ended by Mick Foley (then competing as Cactus Jack) at Clash of the Champions XVII.
After his initial run with WCW ended in 1995, Hildreth returned in 1997 as part of Raven’s Flock, aligning with Scott Levy. He later reinvented himself as Major Stash in the Misfits in Action before departing the company in the early 2000s.
Beyond WCW, he also competed in Big Japan Pro Wrestling and remained active on the independent circuit until his retirement in 2009 following a final match in Maryland Championship Wrestling.
READ MORE: Sycho Sid’s Son Calls Out ‘Disrespectful’ WWE Hall of Fame Induction
