Wrestling World Mourns Hulk Hogan as Legendary Superstar Dies at 71

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Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has passed away at the age of 71. The larger-than-life figure, born Terry Gene Bollea, died Thursday morning at his Florida home in Clearwater.

Authorities responded to a cardiac arrest call and rushed Hogan to a nearby hospital. Sadly, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. His longtime manager, Chris Volo, confirmed that Hogan passed away surrounded by family.

The WWE expressed sorrow, stating, “WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.” Hogan, they added, was one of the most iconic names who helped put wrestling on the global map in the 1980s.

Wrestling’s Biggest Superstar

Hogan was a cornerstone of WWE (then WWF) during its golden era. His towering physique, charisma, and unforgettable catchphrases made him the face of wrestling for decades. He was the headliner for the first WrestleMania in 1985 and battled legends like Andre the Giant, Randy Savage, and The Rock.

He held the WWF/WWE championship six times and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 by Sylvester Stallone. Hogan’s matches were more than just fights—they were cultural events.

From the Ring to the Screen

Hogan didn’t just rule the ring—he conquered pop culture. With his signature yellow tights and bandana, he became a TV and movie personality. His role as Thunderlips in Rocky III introduced him to Hollywood audiences, and his VH1 reality show Hogan Knows Best gave fans a glimpse into his personal life.

He also became the first pro wrestler to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated, a symbol of his reach beyond wrestling.

In this April 3, 2005, file photo, Hulk Hogan fires up the crowd between matches during WrestleMania 21 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

A Fiery Political Endorsement

In a surprising twist, Hogan made headlines in 2024 for endorsing Donald Trump during the Republican National Convention. The two had shared a history—Trump once hosted WrestleManias that Hogan headlined in the 1980s.

Following a campaign trail incident, Hogan praised Trump’s reaction, tearing his shirt off to reveal a Trump tank top. “Let Trumpamania run wild, brother!” he roared, electrifying the crowd.

The Origin of Hulkamania

Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan moved with his family to Tampa, Florida. Initially a bass guitarist in local rock bands, he found his calling in the wrestling world in the 1970s.

Despite a rough start—his first trainer reportedly broke his leg to deter him—Hogan persisted. His dedication, intense training, and steroid use (which he later admitted) transformed him into the muscular icon fans adored.

The name “Hulk” came from his resemblance to the comic book character. “Hogan” was added by promoter Vince McMahon Sr., aiming to give his star wrestler an Irish touch.

Reinvention as “Hollywood” Hogan

In the mid-1990s, Hogan left WWE for rival promotion WCW. There, he reinvented himself as “Hollywood” Hogan, a villainous leader of the notorious New World Order (nWo). This heel turn rejuvenated his career and brought WCW into the wrestling spotlight.

He later returned to WWE and clashed with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson at WrestleMania 2002. Though he lost, the match was historic, symbolizing a passing of the torch between generations.

Controversies and Comebacks

Despite his fame, Hogan's life wasn’t free from controversy. In 2015, he was suspended by WWE after a leaked recording revealed him using racial slurs. He was reinstated three years later.

He also won a $140 million lawsuit against Gawker for leaking a private tape, leading to the site’s shutdown.

A Final Curtain Call

Hogan is survived by his ex-wife Linda and their two children, Brooke and Nick. Though his personal life faced turbulence, his wrestling legacy remains unmatched.

From humble beginnings to global superstardom, Hulk Hogan changed the face of professional wrestling forever. He was more than a wrestler—he was a movement.

Rest in power, Hulkster. Hulkamania will live on.