Kevin Von Erich, born Kevin Ross Adkisson on May 15, 1957, is a retired American professional wrestler with a net worth estimated at $10 million. As the last surviving member of the legendary Von Erich wrestling family, Kevin’s career in the ring and his subsequent business ventures have cemented his legacy in the world of professional wrestling. Now 67 years old, Kevin resides in Kauai, Hawaii, continuing to grow his wealth through various endeavors, including real estate and entertainment rights.
The Rise of Kevin Von Erich
Kevin Von Erich began his wrestling career in 1976 under the guidance of his father, Fritz Von Erich, a renowned wrestler and promoter. As part of World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), the promotion owned by his father, Kevin quickly gained fame for his athletic ability and unique style, notably wrestling barefoot, which set him apart from his contemporaries. His agility and in-ring charisma made him a fan favorite, particularly in Texas, where the Von Erich name was synonymous with professional wrestling.
Throughout his career, Kevin was known for his battles against some of wrestling’s biggest names, including Ric Flair and Chris Adams. He achieved significant success in both singles and tag team competition, holding multiple championships, such as the WCWA World Heavyweight Title. His partnership with his younger brother, David Von Erich, led to several title reigns, including two NWA Texas Tag Team Championships in 1978, marking the early peak of their careers.
Personal Struggles and Family Tragedy
Despite his achievements in wrestling, Kevin’s life has been marked by tragedy. He is the last surviving son of Fritz Von Erich, with his five brothers—Jack Jr., David, Kerry, Mike, and Chris—all passing away under tragic circumstances. The Von Erich family has long been associated with a series of untimely deaths, contributing to a narrative often referred to as the “Von Erich curse.”
Kevin lost his elder brother, Jack Jr., to a tragic accident in 1959 when Jack was just six years old. His brother David died at the age of 25 from complications related to acute enteritis while on a wrestling tour in Japan in 1984. Following David’s death, the family endured further heartbreak with the suicides of Mike, Chris, and Kerry over the next several years. Each loss took an emotional toll on Kevin, who decided to retire from full-time wrestling in 1995, stating that the sport was no longer fun without his brothers by his side.
A New Chapter: Life After Wrestling
After stepping away from the wrestling ring, Kevin Von Erich began to focus on other business ventures. He dabbled in commercial real estate, a move that proved lucrative. In 2022, he placed his Texas ranch on the market with a $17 million price tag, showcasing his continued involvement in the real estate market. His business acumen, coupled with the rights he holds over the distribution of World Class Championship Wrestling content through K.R. Adkisson Enterprises, has significantly contributed to his net worth.
Beyond real estate, Kevin has also remained connected to the wrestling world through media appearances and video game features. His inclusion in popular games like WWE 2K17 and WWE 2K18, as well as his family’s story being highlighted in ESPN’s “30 for 30 Shorts,” have kept the Von Erich legacy alive for new generations of fans.
Legacy and Family Today
Kevin Von Erich and his wife, Pam, whom he married on August 1, 1980, have four children: two sons, Kevin Marshall and David Michael Ross, and two daughters, Kristen Rain and Jillian Lindsey. His sons, Marshall and Ross, have continued the family tradition by becoming professional wrestlers, performing under the tag team name “Marshall and Ross Von Erich.” The brothers debuted in Pro Wrestling Noah in 2012 and have since wrestled in various promotions, including teaming up with Kevin for special appearances.
Today, Kevin and his family reside in Hawaii, where they manage a family investment business. Despite the many challenges and tragedies he has faced, Kevin continues to honor his family’s name in wrestling. In May 2023, he announced his family’s plans to return to their roots in Texas, moving to a ranch near Boerne. This move underscores his deep connection to his family’s past and their enduring impact on the wrestling industry.
Kevin Von Erich: A Story of Resilience
Kevin Von Erich’s life has been a story of resilience in the face of adversity. His journey from a celebrated wrestler to a successful businessman is a testament to his strength and determination. While the tragic history of the Von Erich family looms large, Kevin’s continued efforts to honor their legacy and build a future for his children and grandchildren provide a more hopeful chapter in the family’s story.
As the last surviving son of Fritz Von Erich, Kevin has shouldered the weight of his family’s storied and often tragic history. Yet, he remains a respected figure in wrestling, not just for his in-ring achievements but for the grace with which he has navigated life’s many challenges. At 67, Kevin Von Erich stands as a symbol of perseverance, both in and out of the ring, ensuring that the Von Erich name remains synonymous with the passion and dedication that defined their family’s contribution to professional wrestling.
