WWE Legend Hulk Hogan has passed away at the age of 71

Breaking News

Hulk Hogan, the legendary pro‑wrestler, sadly passed away on July 24, 2025, at age 71. He suffered a cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home and was later pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital.

WWE confirmed his passing and said they’re deeply saddened by the loss of such a cultural icon. Fans around the world have been reacting with shock and grief.

Early Life & Start

Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan grew up in Georgia and began wrestling in the late 1970s. He first stepped into the ring as a bouncer before catching attention in Championship Wrestling from Florida.

By the time he reached the WWF in 1979, his size, look, and fiery charisma had set the stage for something huge. It was only a matter of time until “Hulkamania” exploded on the scene.

Rise of Hulkamania

In the 1980s, Hogan became a household name, inspiring kids to “train, pray, and eat their vitamins.” His red‑yellow ring gear and iconic handlebar mustache made him instantly recognizable.

He led WWE into mainstream pop culture, wrestling major matches at every WrestleMania. His charisma catapulted the organization into global entertainment.

Championship Achievements

Hogan won a total of 12 major world titles—six in WWE and six in WCW. He held the WWF Championship five times, including that legendary 1,474‑day reign as champ.

He also took home the Royal Rumble in both 1990 and 1991. His impressive titles cemented him as one of wrestling’s all‑time greatest and most celebrated icons.

Iconic Rivalries

One of Hogan’s most famous matches was his face‑off with “The Iron Sheik,” which kicked off Hulkamania in 1984 . He also battled Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III, an epic showdown of strength and drama.

Later, the clash with The Rock at WrestleMania X8 in 2002 symbolized a passing‑of‑the‑torch moment. Hogan’s ability to create unforgettable in‑ring stories defined his legacy.

Hollywood Hogan & NWO

In the mid‑90s, Hogan reinvented himself as “Hollywood Hogan,” leading the rebellious New World Order in WCW. This heel turn shocked fans but made WCW hugely popular in the “Monday Night Wars”.

NWO changed wrestling storytelling forever, blending drama and defiance. Hogan’s shift showed his knack for staying relevant and unpredictable.

Big Screen Roles

Hogan didn’t stay in the ring—he crossed into films like Rocky III, where he played Thunderlips. He also starred in movies like No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny.

On TV, he appeared on The A‑Team and headlined his own reality show Hogan Knows Best. His reach expanded far beyond wrestling arenas.

Hall of Fame Honors

Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, then again in 2020 as part of NWO. The 2005 induction was done by his friend Sylvester Stallone.

Despite being removed in 2015 due to scandal, he was reinstated in 2018. His Hall of Fame status is a testament to his enduring ring legacy.

Controversies

Hogan faced major setbacks, including a leaked sex video in 2012 and racist remarks made public in 2015. Those incidents led to WWE removing him from their Hall of Fame for a time.

He apologized, settled the Gawker lawsuit for $31 million, and eventually regained public trust. His career shows a journey of mistakes, consequences, and redemption.

Business Ventures

In 2024, Hogan teamed up with Eric Bischoff to launch Real American Freestyle, a wrestling league for rising talent. He also introduced Real American Beer, a beer brand inspired by his WWE theme.

He doubled as the league’s commissioner until his death. Hogan was always looking for the next big thing in wrestling.

Health & Final Moments

Earlier this year, Hogan had neck surgery and suffered some health scares—but his wife Sky said his heart remained strong. On July 24, emergency crews responded to a cardiac arrest call at 9:51 AM, and CPR was performed for over 30 minutes.

He was taken to Morton Plant Hospital and pronounced dead around 11:17 AM. There were no signs of foul play—just a tragic heart event.

Family Statement

Hogan’s family shared a heartfelt message saying, “It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we confirm we have lost a legend. Our beloved Terry Bollea, known worldwide as Hulk Hogan,” and asked for privacy during their grief. They stressed taking solace in the beautiful memories he left behind.

They confirmed he was surrounded by loved ones when he passed. It’s clear his family was at his side in his final hours.

WWE Tribute

WWE expressed sorrow, calling Hogan “one of pop‑culture’s most recognizable figures” for pushing the brand global in the 1980s. They extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fans.

They highlighted the lasting influence he had on their story and fans everywhere. His legacy lives on in WWE’s modern shape.

Fellow Wrestlers React

Wrestlers like Ric Flair, The Undertaker, Triple H, and John Cena paid tribute, celebrating Hogan as a pioneer and friend. Flair fondly recalled Hogan’s loyalty during tough times.

Triple H said Hogan set the “superstar archetype” in wrestling. These heartfelt words show his impact on fellow legends.

Tributes from Beyond

Even politicians like Donald Trump publicly mourned Hogan. He sends his condolences to Hogan’s family, saying he was “MAGA all the way – Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart”.

Celebrities like Sylvester Stallone, who acted alongside Hogan in Rocky III, say the wrestler was “absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky III incredibly special. These diverse tributes show just how wide his appeal was—beyond just wrestling fans.

Look back on the life and legacy of Alan Bergman, the award‑winning songwriter who passed away at 99.

Cultural Legacy

Hogan transformed wrestling into mainstream entertainment in the 1980s and beyond. His iconic attire, thunderous cheers, and unforgettable promos influenced generations of fans and future wrestlers.

He built the ultimate blueprint for the modern wrestling superstar. His larger‑than‑life persona lives on in today’s entertainment and pop culture industry.

As one legend leaves the stage, Fans remember another, Paul Libin, the visionary behind Circle in the Square.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and with human editing.