In the wake of his passing, Wrestling fans and friends remember Hogan's exceptional contributions to the industry and his larger-than-life personality that captivated millions worldwide.
Hulk Hogan, one of America's most beloved wrestling figures, has died at the age of 71. The iconic figure, known for his flowing blond hair and handlebar moustache, passed away at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday. Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, was a groundbreaking professional wrestler who made an indelible mark on the sport and popular culture.
Initially launching his wrestling career in 1977, Hogan skyrocketed to fame in 1983 after joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), which later became World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). His larger-than-life character resonated with fans, propelling wrestling into the mainstream spotlight and eventually leading to a successful reality television career with "Hogan Knows Best" on VH1 from 2005 to 2007.
Chris Volo, Hogan's manager, confirmed that the wrestling star suffered a cardiac arrest at home, prompting emergency services to respond to a medical call. He was transported to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Authorities stated that there would be an investigation but noted no suspicious circumstances surrounding his passing.
In a heartfelt tribute on social media, Donald Trump reflected on his friendship with Hogan, stating, "I lost a great friend today... he was MAGA all the way." Hogan had also recently been vocal in support of Trump, even appearing at the 2024 Republican National Convention where he electrified crowds with his speech and showcased his support for the former president.
His contributions to wrestling are celebrated not only by fans globally but also by fellow wrestling legends. WWE released a statement expressing sorrow over Hogan's passing, highlighting his role in helping the company achieve worldwide recognition in the '80s. An eight-time WrestleMania headliner and six-time WWE champion, Hogan's contribution to the wrestling industry includes famed rivalries with other wrestling greats like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, 'Macho Man' Randy Savage, and Andre The Giant.
Wrestling figures such as Ric Flair and The Undertaker mourned his loss, with Flair calling Hogan "an incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father." Mike Johnson, the Republican speaker of the House of Representatives, recalled fond memories from childhood and campaigning alongside him in recent times, calling him a "giant in stature and in life."
Born in 1953, Hogan became a pop culture icon known for his "Hulkamania" brand, starring in various films and TV shows, including "Rocky III" and a self-titled animated series. Despite facing personal controversies, including a publicized legal battle over privacy and allegations of racism, Hogan was reinstated into WWE's Hall of Fame in 2018.
Hogan's health issues, a result of years spent in the ring, were well-documented, and he had undergone multiple surgeries in recent years. He leaves behind a legacy that will undoubtedly remain part of wrestling history, as tributes from loyal fans and friends serve as testament to his enduring impact on the sport he helped elevate to new heights.
Tributes continue to flow in as fans, fellow wrestlers, and friends reflect on Hogan's incredible impact both in and out of the ring, promising that his memory will live on for generations to come.
Hulk Hogan, one of America's most beloved wrestling figures, has died at the age of 71. The iconic figure, known for his flowing blond hair and handlebar moustache, passed away at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday. Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, was a groundbreaking professional wrestler who made an indelible mark on the sport and popular culture.
Initially launching his wrestling career in 1977, Hogan skyrocketed to fame in 1983 after joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), which later became World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). His larger-than-life character resonated with fans, propelling wrestling into the mainstream spotlight and eventually leading to a successful reality television career with "Hogan Knows Best" on VH1 from 2005 to 2007.
Chris Volo, Hogan's manager, confirmed that the wrestling star suffered a cardiac arrest at home, prompting emergency services to respond to a medical call. He was transported to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Authorities stated that there would be an investigation but noted no suspicious circumstances surrounding his passing.
In a heartfelt tribute on social media, Donald Trump reflected on his friendship with Hogan, stating, "I lost a great friend today... he was MAGA all the way." Hogan had also recently been vocal in support of Trump, even appearing at the 2024 Republican National Convention where he electrified crowds with his speech and showcased his support for the former president.
His contributions to wrestling are celebrated not only by fans globally but also by fellow wrestling legends. WWE released a statement expressing sorrow over Hogan's passing, highlighting his role in helping the company achieve worldwide recognition in the '80s. An eight-time WrestleMania headliner and six-time WWE champion, Hogan's contribution to the wrestling industry includes famed rivalries with other wrestling greats like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, 'Macho Man' Randy Savage, and Andre The Giant.
Wrestling figures such as Ric Flair and The Undertaker mourned his loss, with Flair calling Hogan "an incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father." Mike Johnson, the Republican speaker of the House of Representatives, recalled fond memories from childhood and campaigning alongside him in recent times, calling him a "giant in stature and in life."
Born in 1953, Hogan became a pop culture icon known for his "Hulkamania" brand, starring in various films and TV shows, including "Rocky III" and a self-titled animated series. Despite facing personal controversies, including a publicized legal battle over privacy and allegations of racism, Hogan was reinstated into WWE's Hall of Fame in 2018.
Hogan's health issues, a result of years spent in the ring, were well-documented, and he had undergone multiple surgeries in recent years. He leaves behind a legacy that will undoubtedly remain part of wrestling history, as tributes from loyal fans and friends serve as testament to his enduring impact on the sport he helped elevate to new heights.
Tributes continue to flow in as fans, fellow wrestlers, and friends reflect on Hogan's incredible impact both in and out of the ring, promising that his memory will live on for generations to come.
