Josip Hrvoje Peruzović (October 14, 1947 – July 29, 2018), better known by his ring name of Nikolai Volkoff, was a Yugoslav-born American professional wrestler who was best known for his performances in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Although the Volkoff character was often portrayed as a villainous Russian, Peruzović originated from Croatia.
He wrestled into the age of 70, still wrestling just before he died a few months later.
Formal cause of death was not announced. Volkoff had been in the hospital in Maryland for several days for “dehydration,: along with other issues that were not specified.
Hall of Fame: Nikolai Volkoff