It’s the end of an era for the Arkansas Razorbacks. One of the most prominent Hogs has passed away this weekend. And it’s not just any Hog, it’s THE hog – Tusk IV.
Serving as the Razorbacks’ live mascot since the 2011 season, Tusk IV retired at the end of the 2019 school year. Every home football game, Tusk IV made the trip to Fayetteville from his home in Dardanelle. He even appeared at other athletics events, bowl games and other events.
Born on February 20, 2010, Tusk IV was 10 years old when he died Jan. 12. He was the son of Tusk II, the Arkansas Razorbacks’ live mascot from 2005-2010.
Tusk IV’s career record as mascot was 44-44.
It’s with a heavy heart we announce that Tusk IV, who retired at the end of the 2019 school year, passed away yesterday at his home in Dardanelle. His legacy will continue to live on through Tusk V (@Tusk_UA) and the entire Razorback Family. pic.twitter.com/U5dAthsOyx
— Arkansas Razorbacks (@ArkRazorbacks) January 13, 2020
The official Arkansas Razorbacks’ Twitter account released a statement announcing the death of Tusk IV. “It’s with a heavy heart we announce that Tusk IV, who retired at the end of the 2019 school year, passed away yesterday at his home in Dardanelle. His legacy will continue to live on through Tusk V and the entire Razorback family.”
His son, Tusk V, released his own statement on his Twitter page. “It’s pretty special to have a dad that creates a legacy that outlives him. I am proud to carry on the legacy that my dad left for me. Love you, Dad.”
It’s pretty special to have a dad that creates a legacy that outlives him. I am proud to carry on the legacy that my dad left for me. Love you, Dad. ❤️🐗 pic.twitter.com/Spby0E1P49
— TUSK V (@Tusk_UA) January 13, 2020
It is unclear if Tusk V typed the tweet himself or asked someone to do it for him.
READ MORE: University of Arkansas Welcomes New Live Mascot
