Who Was Killer Khan? How Did WWE Legend Masashi Ozawa AKA Killer Khan Die?
by Ruksana
Updated Jan 04, 2024
Who Was Killer Khan?
Masashi Ozawa, popularly known as Killer Khan, was a Japanese professional wrestler born on March 6, 1947, in Tsubame, Niigata, Japan. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 311 pounds, Khan made a significant impact in the wrestling world. He began his wrestling career in 1971 under his real name, later adopting the ring name Killer Khan and the persona of a Mongolian giant, created by Karl Gotch.
Khan gained fame in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the 1980s, engaging in high-profile matches, including a notable "Mongolian Stretcher match" against André the Giant. Known for using Asian mist against opponents, Killer Khan left a lasting legacy in professional wrestling.
Name
Killer Khan
Birth Name
Masashi Ozawa
Ring Names
Killer Khan, Temjin El Mongol, Masashi Ozawa
Born
March 6, 1947, Tsubame, Niigata, Japan
Died
December 29, 2023, Tokyo, Japan
Aged
76
Height
1.95 m (6 ft 5 in)
Weight
141 kg (311 lb)
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How Did WWE Legend Masashi Ozawa AKA Killer Khan Die?
Masashi Ozawa, also known as Killer Khan, passed away on December 29, 2023, at the age of 76. The cause of his death was an aortic dissection. Ozawa collapsed at one of his bars in Tokyo, as announced by New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
Killer Khan had a notable career in the wrestling world, with multiple stints in WWE during the 1980s, leaving behind a legacy that is remembered by wrestling fans worldwide.
Killer Khan Early Life
Masashi Ozawa, born in Tsubame, Niigata, Japan, ventured into the world of professional wrestling in 1971 under his real name. He began his career in Japan, wrestling under his true identity, before adopting the ring name Killer Khan and the persona of a Mongolian giant.
Ozawa's early years in the wrestling scene laid the foundation for a career that would see him become a prominent figure in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the 1980s.
Killer Khan Career
Killer Khan's wrestling journey started in Japan in 1971, using his real name in the ring. He later adopted the Mongolian giant character created by Karl Gotch and ventured to the U.S. in 1979. Khan's notable feuds included matches against André the Giant in Georgia Championship Wrestling in 1980, leading to his signing with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF).
His feuds with WWE Champion Bob Backlund and Intercontinental Champion Pedro Morales showcased Khan as one of WWE's top villains. His wrestling career spanned multiple territories, winning titles such as the Stampede North American Heavyweight Championship and the World Class Championship Wrestling Television Championship.
Killer Khan Death
Masashi Ozawa, aka Killer Khan, met his demise on December 29, 2023, due to an aortic dissection. He collapsed at one of his bars in Tokyo, according to a statement released by New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Killer Khan's passing marked the end of a wrestling era, leaving behind a legacy of memorable matches and contributions to the sport.
Killer Khan Net Worth
Killer Khan's net worth is estimated to be $1.4 million. After retiring from professional wrestling in 1987, Khan transitioned into owning and operating restaurants and bars in Tokyo, contributing to his financial success. Beyond the wrestling ring, Killer Khan diversified his career, leaving a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and business ventures.
Who Was Killer Khan - FAQs
Masashi Ozawa, also known as Killer Khan, was a Japanese professional wrestler.
Killer Khan was known by different ring names, including Killer Khan, Temjin El Mongol, and Masashi Ozawa.
Killer Khan made his professional wrestling debut on November 20, 1971.
Killer Khan was billed from Mongolia.
Killer Khan retired from professional wrestling on November 29, 1987.