Quick Read
- Hulk Hogan, 71, passed away on July 24, 2025, due to cardiac arrest.
- He revolutionized professional wrestling in the 1980s, headlining eight WrestleManias.
- Hogan faced health issues, including back surgeries and heart problems, before his death.
- His legacy is celebrated, but his career was marked by controversies, including a 2015 scandal.
- Tributes poured in from fans, wrestling icons, and public figures worldwide.
Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. The wrestling legend suffered a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida, before being pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital. His death marks the end of an era for professional wrestling, where Hogan’s name became synonymous with larger-than-life personas and groundbreaking events.
The Rise of a Wrestling Icon
Born on August 11, 576, Hogan revolutionized professional wrestling in the 1980s, bringing the sport into the mainstream. As reported by ESPN, Hogan headlined the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985, teaming up with Mr. T to face Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff. WrestleMania I was a pivotal moment, drawing an audience of nearly one million on closed-circuit television and cementing the WWE (then WWF) as a cultural phenomenon.
Hogan’s career reached new heights with his iconic match against Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III in 1987. The event, held at the Pontiac Silverdome in Michigan, attracted over 80,000 fans and became one of the most celebrated moments in wrestling history. According to ABC News, Hogan went on to headline eight WrestleManias and held the WWF World Heavyweight Championship six times, including a record-breaking 1,474-day reign.
Health Struggles and Final Years
In recent years, Hogan faced several health challenges, including back surgeries and heart issues. His wife, Sky Daily, confirmed in an emotional Instagram post that Hogan had been dealing with health problems but remained resilient. She wrote, “I had so much faith in his strength. I thought we still had more time.”
On the morning of July 24, Clearwater authorities responded to an emergency call for cardiac arrest at Hogan’s residence. According to Today, Hogan was surrounded by family when he passed away. The Clearwater Police Department confirmed there were no signs of foul play, and his death is under routine investigation.
Cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, was identified as the likely cause of death. Medical experts emphasize that this condition often happens without warning, making it particularly dangerous. Hogan’s health struggles had been a subject of speculation, but his family and representatives had consistently denied rumors of his deteriorating condition.
A Complicated Legacy
Hulk Hogan’s career was not without controversy. In 2015, a leaked video showed Hogan using racist language, leading to his termination from WWE. However, he returned to the organization three years later as an ambassador. Hogan also won a $115 million lawsuit against Gawker Media after a sex tape was leaked, a case that highlighted issues of privacy and media ethics.
Despite these setbacks, Hogan’s contributions to wrestling remain unparalleled. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice, in 2005 and 2020, and continued to influence the industry through his entrepreneurial ventures, including the Real American Freestyle wrestling promotion.
Tributes from Around the World
The wrestling community and fans worldwide have been mourning Hogan’s death. Ric Flair, a close friend and fellow wrestling icon, expressed his shock, saying, “Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business. An incredible athlete, talent, and friend.”
WWE CEO Triple H described Hogan as “the archetype of what it meant to be a Superstar,” while Sgt. Slaughter called him an “incredible angel.” Even outside the wrestling world, figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump paid tribute, calling Hogan a “great friend” and a cultural icon.
Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, and his two children, Brooke and Nick. His family released a statement saying, “May we all take solace in the wonderful memories he left behind for the millions of fans worldwide whose lives he touched for more than four decades.”
Hulk Hogan’s death leaves a void in the world of professional wrestling, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of fans and wrestlers alike. His larger-than-life persona and unforgettable moments will ensure that the Hulkster remains immortal in the hearts of millions.