Hulk Hogan Wrestling Icon and Pop Culture Legend Dies at 71
Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away at 71 on July 24, 2025, after suffering a cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home, his manager Chris Volo confirmed to NBC Los Angeles. Emergency responders arrived at 9:51 AM, but despite treatment and transport to Morton Plant Hospital, Hogan was pronounced dead.
The news, first reported by TMZ, stunned fans worldwide, coming weeks after his wife, Sky Daily, debunked rumors of him being in a coma, asserting his heart was “strong” post-neck surgery. This article delves into Hogan’s transformative legacy, the circumstances of his death, and the outpouring of tributes from fans and public figures.
A Larger-Than-Life Legacy
Hogan, instantly recognizable by his blonde handlebar mustache, bandanas, and 6’7”, 320-pound frame, revolutionized professional wrestling in the 1980s. His “Hulkamania” persona, marked by theatrical ring entrances and shirt-ripping charisma, turned the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) into a global phenomenon.
Headlining WrestleMania eight times, including a historic 1987 match against Andre the Giant before 93,173 fans, Hogan won six WWE championships and became a pop culture icon. His 1996 heel turn as “Hollywood Hulk Hogan” with the New World Order (NWO) further cemented his influence, leading to a second WWE Hall of Fame induction in 2020.
Beyond wrestling, Hogan starred in films like Rocky III (1982) as Thunderlips, No Holds Barred, and Mr. Nanny, and appeared in TV shows like The A-Team and Hogan Knows Best (2005-2007). His 1985 Saturday Night Live co-hosting gig and Hulk Hogan’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling cartoon underscored his crossover appeal.
At his peak, he was the most requested celebrity for Make-a-Wish. However, his career faced controversy, notably in 2015 when a leaked sex tape with racist remarks led to his temporary removal from the WWE Hall of Fame. Reinstated in 2018, he won $31 million in a lawsuit against Gawker, which had published the tape.
Circumstances of His Death
Hogan’s health had been under scrutiny following a May 2025 neck procedure, with rumors of a “deathbed” condition dismissed by Sky Daily and manager Jimmy Hart, who said Hogan was “doing phenomenal” days before his death. On July 24, emergency crews responded to a cardiac arrest call at his Clearwater home.
Video footage showed paramedics performing chest compressions as Hogan was wheeled to an ambulance, but efforts to revive him failed. Clearwater Police scheduled a press conference to provide further details, but no official cause beyond cardiac arrest has been confirmed.
Tributes and Political Ties
The wrestling world and beyond mourned Hogan’s passing. WWE issued a statement on X: “One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s.” Ric Flair, a close friend, shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling Hogan’s support during his own near-death experience: “Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you!” Charlotte Flair, Ric’s daughter, echoed this, noting Hogan’s kindness during her father’s illness.
Hogan’s vocal support for Donald Trump, culminating in a shirt-ripping appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, drew tributes from MAGA figures. House Speaker Mike Johnson called him a “giant in stature and in life,” while Vice President JD Vance and Donald Trump Jr. expressed personal grief, with Vance reminiscing about childhood admiration. However, some, like The Athletic’s Chris Vannini, noted Hogan’s “complicated legacy,” citing his racist remarks alongside his industry-changing impact.
A Complicated Icon
Hogan’s death marks the end of an era for wrestling, which he elevated from niche to mainstream. Survived by Sky Daily, married in 2023, and children Brooke and Nick from his first marriage, Hogan leaves a legacy of unparalleled charisma and controversy. While Hulkamania’s spirit endures, his passing underscores the fragility of even the largest icons. As investigations continue, the focus remains on celebrating a man who redefined entertainment, despite his flaws.
