Remembering Hulk Hogan: A Personal Reflection
The pastor from the church attended by WWE icon Hulk Hogan, who died last Thursday at 71, shared a heartfelt remembrance of him. In a social media post, Aaron Filippon, pastor of Indian Rocks Baptist Church in Florida, reflected on Hogan, whose real name was Terry Borea. Borea and his wife, Sky, were baptized at the church last December.
“Terry was not just a member of our church but also a personal friend. Over the last couple of years, we had the chance to pray together, explore scripture, and grow in our faith,” Filippon wrote on Saturday.
He added, “We miss him tremendously, but we take comfort in knowing he is with the Lord now. He’s genuinely healed and rejoicing with the Savior he cherished so deeply. Terry is alive and thriving.” Filippon described Hogan as humble and gracious, emphasizing his everyday expressions of faith.
“He was devoted to his wife, Sky, and spent time with those he loved without seeking attention. He wasn’t about the spotlight or exclusive areas; he wanted to be where God was at work,” Filippon commented.
According to the pastor, the church community viewed Hogan not as a celebrity but as a “brother in Christ,” noting that he loved God, his neighbors, and the people around him in Pinellas County.
Filippon recalled visits to the church where Hogan would often discuss scripture, particularly John 3:16, and show his commitment to his faith.
“Terry wasn’t perfect—he never claimed to be. He had his past and made mistakes. The beauty of the gospel, he’d say, is that anyone who calls on the name of the Lord can be saved. Terry didn’t just talk about faith; he lived it. He embodied grace and made sure everyone near him felt welcomed by that same grace,” Filippon wrote.
In closing, Filippon encouraged readers who might not share the same beliefs to consider turning to Christ. “If you’re reading this, know that you can have the kind of faith Terry had. Jesus gives hope, forgiveness, and eternal life to anyone who believes,” he said.
“I love you, Terry. Thank you for showing me how to live courageously and finish strong for Jesus.”
I wanted to give my family a while before I could share what was in my heart. On Thursday, Terry “Hulk Hogan” Borea went to heaven.
Terry was a member of our church and a personal friend. Over the past two years, we have had the opportunity to pray together, study and challenge God’s Word… pic.twitter.com/cwubv9r7wi
– Aaron Filippon (@aaronfilippone) July 26, 2025
