Legendary WWE superstar Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, has passed away at the age of 71. He died on July 24, 2025, following a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Medical personnel pronounced him deceased after treatment, with no signs of foul play.
A Cultural Phenomenon in Wrestling and Beyond
Hogan’s larger-than-life persona—bleach-blonde hair, iconic moustache, and red-and-yellow ring gear—helped transform professional wrestling into mainstream entertainment. His legendary “Hulkamania” era in the 1980s made him a global pop culture icon. He headlined eight WrestleManias, won six WWF titles, co-founded the infamous New World Order (nWo) faction in WCW, and battled icons like André the Giant and The Rock.
Beyond the ring, Hogan made a mark in Hollywood with roles in Rocky III, No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny. He also starred in the reality TV series Hogan Knows Best, broadening his audience and cultural impact.
Outpouring of Tributes
Tributes have poured in from every corner of the sports and entertainment world. WWE called him “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures,” noting his instrumental role in the company’s global rise. Fellow wrestlers such as Ric Flair and Triple H expressed sorrow and admiration for Hogan’s legacy.
Former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon described him as the greatest WWE Superstar of all time. Political figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, also paid tribute. Trump, who once appeared alongside Hogan at a Republican National Convention, remembered him as a “true American icon.”
The Man Behind the Persona
Born in Georgia in 1953, Terry Bollea adopted the name Hulk Hogan and quickly rose to international stardom in the 1980s. His charisma, unmatched presence, and connection with fans helped redefine sports entertainment. Though he faced controversies—including a period of removal from the WWE Hall of Fame—he was reinstated in 2020 and remained a key figure in wrestling circles.
His Legacy in Motion
Earlier in 2025, Hogan co-founded Real American Freestyle, a new unscripted wrestling promotion aimed at spotlighting collegiate and Olympic-style talent. The venture was seen as a return to wrestling’s roots, blending real athleticism with Hogan’s vision of storytelling. Though he will not witness its future, the project remains a symbol of his enduring commitment to the sport.
Photo Source: AFP
