Hulk Hogan, an icon of professional wrestling and a friend of U.S. President Donald Trump, passed away this Thursday at the age of 71, after suffering a cardiac arrest in his home in Clearwater, Florida, as confirmed by the specialized media TMZ Sports.
Emergency services responded to a call at 9:51 a.m., reporting a cardiac emergency.
Upon arrival, several police vehicles and ambulances were present at the scene. Hogan was transported by stretcher to the nearest hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
His death has cast a pall over the world of entertainment and professional wrestling (WWE), reports the media.
Born as Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan forever changed the face of the sport. His muscular, charismatic character, dressed in a yellow bandana and a horseshoe mustache, turned the WWE into a global phenomenon during the 1980s.
The phenomenon of "Hulkamania" erupted after his victory against the Iron Sheik in 1984, earning him the World Heavyweight Championship.
Hogan transformed wrestling into a family spectacle, attracting children, parents, and entire generations to the arenas.
In 1996, he redefined his career by switching to the side of villains as "Hollywood Hogan" and co-founding the legendary group NWO (New World Order), further solidifying his status as a revolutionary figure in sports entertainment.
In addition to his wrestling career, he had a prolific foray into film and television. He made his big screen debut alongside Sylvester Stallone in Rocky III (1982) as the fearsome Thunderlips, and starred in films such as Mr. Nanny, Suburban Commando, and No Holds Barred.
He also starred in the reality show "Hogan Knows Best" alongside his then-wife Linda and their children Nick and Brooke, showcasing his family life outside the ring.
In 2025, Hogan had launched an amateur wrestling project called Real American Freestyle, with its first event scheduled for August 30 on Fox Nation.
During his career, he maintained a close relationship with President Donald Trump, who invited him to participate in the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he made a theatrical appearance that energized the conservative audience.
His patriotic style, defiant tone, and popularity made him a cultural symbol both in and beyond the realm of sports.
Trump posted a message on his social media where he expressed his sorrow over his death and referred to him as "a legend."
Since the 1980s, the mogul and now president has been involved in iconic WWE events, such as WrestleMania IV (1988) and V (1989), held at his property, the Trump Plaza in Atlantic City, where he would appear alongside Hogan.
They also participated together in several reality shows.
Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, Hogan was temporarily retired in 2015 following the leak of a video containing racist comments. However, he returned in 2020 as part of the NWO.
Throughout his life, he underwent multiple surgeries due to injuries accumulated from his professional activities. “Not a single part of my body is original anymore,” he stated in an interview with Fox News, reflecting the physical toll of an extraordinary career.
WWE issued a statement expressing its sorrow over his passing, describing him as “one of the most recognized figures in pop culture.” “Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. We extend our condolences to his family, friends, and fans,” the statement reads.
His wife Sky, whom he married in 2023, had recently denied rumors about his health, assuring that his heart was “strong” after neck surgery.
However, the physical deterioration was evident, and in May reports emerged stating that Hogan was in a delicate condition.
Hulk Hogan leaves an impressive legacy, both inside and outside the ring. Many consider him a wrestling superstar and a cultural force that has shaped generations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hulk Hogan's Death and His Legacy in WWE
How did Hulk Hogan die?
Hulk Hogan passed away at the age of 71 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Clearwater, Florida. Emergency services responded to a call for a cardiac emergency, and Hogan was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
What was Hulk Hogan's impact on WWE?
Hulk Hogan revolutionized professional wrestling by turning WWE into a global phenomenon during the 1980s. His charismatic persona and style attracted audiences of all ages, transforming wrestling into a family spectacle and establishing him as an iconic cultural figure.
What other activities did Hulk Hogan engage in outside the ring?
Hulk Hogan had a prolific foray into film and television. He made his big screen debut in "Rocky III" and starred in several movies as well as a reality show called "Hogan Knows Best." He also launched an amateur wrestling project called Real American Freestyle.
What was Hulk Hogan's relationship with Donald Trump?
Hulk Hogan maintained a close relationship with President Donald Trump. He was invited to participate in the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he made an appearance that energized the conservative audience. His patriotic and defiant style made him a cultural symbol both within and outside of sports.
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