EVERETT, Mass. — Pro wrestling pioneer Walter "Killer" Kowalski has died from a heart attack. He was 81.

Kowalski died Saturday after his family decided to have him taken off life support. Kowalski had been in critical condition at a hospital in Everett, Massachusetts, since the heart attack on Aug. 8.

The death was announced on Kowalski's Web site.

The 6-foot-7, 285 pound Kowalski earned his nickname in 1954 after dropping opponent Yukon Eric during a match in Montreal. He became famous for various moves, including a stomach vice grip called the "Killer Clutch."

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