Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan dies at 71
WWE icon and pop culture sensation Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71. Emergency responders arrived at Hogan’s home in Clearwater around 10:00 a.m. local time (3 p.m. UK time) after he was treated for a cardiac arrest. He was rushed to hospital where he passed away approximately an hour and 15 minutes later according to police officials.
Hulk Hogan born Terry Bollea is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in professional wrestling history. Known for his distinctive blonde mustache and colorful headbands, Hogan’s charisma and theatrical style helped elevate professional wrestling into a widely popular family entertainment sport.
He was a central figure in the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985 and remained a prominent presence in its marquee events for years facing legendary opponents such as André The Giant, Randy Savage, The Rock, and company chairman Vince McMahon. Hogan first claimed the WWE World Championship by defeating the Iron Sheik in 1984 and went on to win five additional titles during his career. In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 with Sylvester Stallone officiating the ceremony.
WWE issued a statement mourning the loss: “WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Fame Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends and fans.”
Tributes poured in from fellow wrestling legends and celebrities. Ric Flair, a close friend and fellow wrestler, expressed his shock on X: “I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @HulkHogan! Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business. An incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father!”
Vince McMahon, WWE’s chairman, also paid homage: “The world lost a treasure today. Hulk Hogan was the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME, loved and admired worldwide. He leaves us with his famous words, ‘Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers.’ Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
The Undertaker, another wrestling legend, said, “The wrestling world has lost a true icon. His contributions to our business are immeasurable. Thank you, Hulk Hogan.”
Triple H reflected on Hogan’s legacy: “He was the archetype of what it meant to be a ‘Superstar’—a global sensation who inspired millions.”
Beyond wrestling, Hogan achieved celebrity status through numerous film and television appearances, including his role as Thunderlips in Rocky III and Shep Ramsey in Suburban Commando. He also starred in his own reality TV show, Hogan Knows Best.
In recent years, Hogan became involved in political endorsements notably supporting Donald Trump. In 2024, he appeared at the Republican National Convention donning a Trump tank top and rallying supporters with the phrase, “Let Trumpamania run wild, brother.”
His political support, however, sparked controversy especially after a 2012 Gawker video surfaced showing Hogan in a sexual encounter with his former best friend’s wife. Hogan sued for invasion of privacy and was awarded $140 million in damages in 2016. He also faced suspension from WWE in 2015 following the release of a recording in which he used a racial slur but was reinstated in 2018.
Born in Georgia in August 1953, Hogan initially played bass guitar in local bands before entering professional wrestling in Florida during the 1970s. He became famous for his muscular physique, famously dubbed the “24-inch pythons,” and adopted the moniker “Hulk” inspired by comic book heroes which later led to royalties paid to Marvel Comics.
Hogan was married three times and had two children. According to Clearwater Police Major Nate Burnside, there are no signs of foul play or suspicious activity related to his death and his family is receiving support during this difficult time.
Hulk Hogan’s legacy as a wrestling superstar and cultural icon leaves an indelible mark on the sport and entertainment world.
