Death after chemo discontinuation! Ex-wrestling star loses battle against cancer

Texarkana (Arkansas/USA) - Rick Harris had been in the ring as a wrestler for decades. Black Bart, as he was known in his active days, forced his opponents to the ground with spectacular showmanship. But now there is great sadness for the former star, who has died at the age of 76 following a serious illness.

As previously announced, the American was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2022 - and had to undergo chemotherapy as a result. However, his health insurance no longer covered the costs, as there was no improvement in his state of health over a longer period of time.

As a result, he was no longer entitled to any further financial benefits and was transferred to a hospice a few days ago.

"He has prayed and is ready to go. He's ready to meet his maker, so it's a win-win situation," said his wife Linda, explaining her partner's decision, according to the British tabloid The Sun.

The former sports star's last big fight , the outcome of which he was obviously aware of - and had deliberately chosen. A little less than a week after being admitted to the end-of-life care facility, Harris' wife announced the tragic death of her husband.

"You may know him as Black Bart, but to me he was my husband Ricky. He left us this morning (Friday, editor's note)," she confirmed in a statement on the social media platform Facebook. "His death was announced at 5.26am this morning. He rests in peace."

Harris made his professional debut in 1975. In addition to his career as a star of the world's biggest wrestling organization WWE, he also worked for WCW and ECW. He was also under contract with All Japan Pro Wrestling before retiring in 2006.

Although he was never able to achieve major success, he was able to secure one title after another at regional level.