Big Van Vader death: WWE legend dies after contracting pneumonia, aged 63

WWE legend Big Van Vader has died after battling heart failure and pneumonia, his family have announced.

The star, who’s real name was Leon White, was an American wrestling icon who rose to fame and popularity in the 1990’s.

He underwent heart surgery in March after being diagnosed with heart failure and was later diagnosed with severe pneumonia, but his condition was believed to be improving.

But on Wednesday his family announced that the wrestler had died on Monday night, at the age of 63.

A statement posted by his son, Jesse, on Vader’s Twitter account read: “It is with a heavy heart to inform everyone that my father, Leon White, passed away on Monday night (6/18/18) at approximately 7:25pm.

“Around a month ago my father was diagnosed with a severe case of Pneumonia. He fought extremely hard and clinically was making progress.

“Unfortunately, on Monday night his heart had enough and it was his time.”

The star was known for appearing on New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), World Championship Wrestling (WCW), the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), and All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) throughout his career.

He also briefly appeared on WWE’s programme, which paid tribute to him following his death.

Sharing images of the star, the official Twitter account wrote: “Look back at the incomparable life and career of the larger-than-life Man They Call Vader.”

The statement added: “WWE is saddened to learn that Leon White, better known to WWE audiences as Vader, passed away Monday night at the age of 63.

“WWE extends its condolences to White’s family, friends and fans.”

Several other wrestling stars paid tribute to Vader, whom they described as being “one of the all-time greats” of the entertainment world.