Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71
WWE has confirmed the death of Hulk Hogan, a legendary figure in the wrestling world, who died on Thursday at the age of 71.
Emergency responders reportedly arrived at Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, after a cardiac arrest call. He was subsequently transported to a hospital.
“WWE is saddened by the news of Hulk Hogan’s passing,” the organization stated on X. “A Hall of Famer and one of pop culture’s most recognized icons, Hogan was instrumental in bringing WWE to a global audience in the ’80s. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans.”
In May, Hogan underwent a procedure for neck issues, but shortly thereafter, it was reported that he had “pretty serious” heart surgery. There were claims that he struggled to speak due to complications from the surgery.
Born Terry Borea, Hogan began his wrestling journey in Florida during the 1970s. He quickly ascended to superstardom in the ’80s, embodying the “Hulkamania” persona and significantly contributing to WWE’s rise.
With his signature yellow tights, red knee pads, iconic blond hair, and torn shirts, Hogan became a symbol of American wrestling. His charismatic persona and famous catchphrases, like “What are you going to do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?!” resonated with millions.
Hogan became the face of WWF as Vince McMahon launched WrestleMania, which has evolved into the biggest annual event in pro wrestling. The first WrestleMania, held at Madison Square Garden, quickly gained landmark status, with Hogan partnering with Mr. T to defeat Paul Ondorf and Roddy Piper in the main event.
One of the most memorable moments in wrestling history occurred at WrestleMania III in front of an audience of around 78,000. There, Hogan famously body-slammed the 520-pound Andre the Giant, solidifying his status in wrestling lore.
In 1994, Hogan played a notable role in Vince McMahon’s high-profile steroid trial, where he admitted to legally using anabolic steroids but maintained that McMahon had not given him the substances.
Hogan’s immense popularity transcended the ring; he ventured into film and television, with his first major role in “Rocky III” as Thunderlips, and appeared in films like “No Holds Barred” and “Mr. Nanny.”
He starred in the television series “Thunder in Paradise” and made guest appearances on popular shows such as “The A-Team” and “Baywatch.” In the mid-2000s, his family was featured in the VH1 reality series “Hogan Knows Best,” sharing glimpses into his home life.
Hogan was born in Augusta, Georgia, in 1953 and had two children, Brooke and Nick, from his first marriage to Linda. Following their divorce in 2007, he married Jennifer McDaniel in 2010, but they divorced in 2022. He wed Skye in 2023.
In July 2024, Hogan publicly supported Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention, delivering a lively speech where he called Trump his “hero” and “gladiator.”
