The wrestling world is in shock following the death of Hulk Hogan, one of the most influential figures in sports entertainment history. The 71-year-old legend passed away Thursday morning after suffering a heart attack at his Florida home.
According to TMZ Sports, emergency services were called to Hogan’s Clearwater residence at dawn. Despite rapid medical intervention, he could not be saved. His death follows recent health struggles, including neck surgery earlier this year.
Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, began his career as a bodybuilder before transitioning to wrestling in the late 1970s. His big break came when he joined the WWF (now WWE), where his larger-than-life persona made him an instant superstar. With his catchphrases, signature bandana, and unmatched charisma, Hogan became the face of wrestling in the 1980s.
His 1984 WWF Championship win ignited “Hulkamania,” a phenomenon that turned him into a pop culture icon. Kids idolized him, adults cheered him, and his matches—like the historic WrestleMania III bout against André the Giant—became legendary.
But Hogan wasn’t content to stay the hero forever. In 1996, he shocked fans by joining WCW’s New World Order, transforming into the villainous “Hollywood Hogan.” This daring reinvention helped WCW surpass WWE in ratings and cemented Hogan’s status as wrestling’s ultimate showman.
Beyond wrestling, Hogan dabbled in acting (Rocky III, Suburban Commando) and reality TV (Hogan Knows Best). His career faced controversy in 2015 when racist remarks led to his temporary exile from WWE, but he later returned and was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
In recent years, Hogan lived a quieter life in Florida, though he remained a beloved figure. His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy—as a hero, a villain, and an entertainer—will endure. WWE is reportedly planning a special tribute to honor his memory.
Hulk Hogan is survived by his wife Sky and his children, Nick and Brooke. To millions of fans, he was more than a wrestler—he was a legend. Hulkamania will live forever.
