Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 After Cardiac Arrest
CLEARWATER, FLORIDA — The world of sports and entertainment is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Terry Gene Bollea, better known to millions around the globe as Hulk Hogan, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. His death was confirmed by his family and representatives, who revealed that the wrestling legend died after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater.
The news, which broke in the early hours of Thursday morning, sent shockwaves through both the wrestling community and popular culture, with tributes pouring in from fans, fellow wrestlers, celebrities, and political figures alike.
A Titan in the Ring
Hogan’s name was synonymous with professional wrestling during its golden age in the 1980s and 1990s. Towering at 6’7″ with his trademark handlebar mustache, bandana, and unmistakable charisma, he helped transform World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) from a regional spectacle into a global phenomenon.
His catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do, brother?!” and “Say your prayers and eat your vitamins!” became rallying cries for a generation of fans who idolized his superhero-like persona. With his red-and-yellow ring gear and exaggerated flexing, Hogan embodied a modern-day gladiator — bold, brash, and invincible.
He was a 12-time world champion, headlined WrestleMania on multiple occasions, and was the first wrestler to win consecutive Royal Rumble matches. His epic bouts with Andre the Giant, The Ultimate Warrior, Randy Savage, and Ric Flair are the stuff of legend.
From Wrestling Icon to Pop Culture Phenomenon
Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler — he was a crossover star. In the 1980s and 1990s, he appeared in movies like Rocky III (as Thunderlips), No Holds Barred, and Suburban Commando. He also had a Saturday morning cartoon, Hulk Hogan’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling, and became the face of action figures, video games, and even his own pasta brand.
His larger-than-life persona made him a household name far beyond wrestling. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 and again in 2020 as part of the nWo faction.
Despite controversies later in life, Hogan’s influence on pop culture remains undeniable. For millions, he wasn’t just a performer — he was a
childhood hero.
Personal Life and Later Years
Born in Augusta, Georgia, on August 11, 1953, and raised in Tampa, Florida, Hogan was an accomplished musician before breaking into wrestling. He was discovered by wrestling promoter Hiro Matsuda in the late 1970s and quickly rose through the ranks.
Hogan married Linda Claridge in 1983, with whom he had two children, Brooke and Nick. The couple divorced in 2009. In 2022, Hogan married Sky Daily, a yoga instructor. Friends close to the family report that Sky was with him at the time of his cardiac arrest and made a desperate attempt to revive him before paramedics arrived.
In recent years, Hogan had spoken openly about his health struggles, including multiple back and knee surgeries. Still, he remained active on social media, frequently interacting with fans and making occasional appearances at wrestling events and fan expos.
A Complicated Legacy
Though Hogan’s career was filled with triumphs, it was not without setbacks. In 2015, he was embroiled in controversy over racist remarks made in a leaked private recording. WWE cut ties with him, and he was removed from the Hall of Fame. However, he was reinstated in 2018 after issuing public apologies and meeting with Black WWE talent.
Fans remain divided over this chapter of his life. For some, it forever tarnished his reputation. For others, it was a painful but human moment that didn’t erase the joy he brought for decades.
In the last few years of his life, Hogan had become increasingly vocal about his political beliefs, appearing at the 2024 Republican National Convention and expressing support for Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. While this garnered support from conservative fans, it alienated others.
Reactions Pour In
As news of his death spread, tributes came from around the world.
Vince McMahon, former WWE CEO, tweeted: “There will never be another like Hulk Hogan. He was the single greatest WWE Superstar of all time.”
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson called Hogan “a trailblazer, a warrior, and a friend,” sharing a touching video montage of their match from WrestleMania X8.
Ric Flair, longtime friend and rival, wrote: “I lost a brother. He prayed over me in the hospital when I nearly died. I’ll never forget that.”
Sylvester Stallone posted: “Without Hulk, Rocky III would’ve never been the same. His power, presence, and humor lit up every scene.”
Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social: “We lost a great friend today. Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way — strong, tough, smart, and kind-hearted. He will be greatly missed.”
Governor Ron DeSantis ordered flags to fly at half-staff in Hogan’s honor and announced a day of remembrance in Florida.
Fans Mourn Across Generations
Outside Hogan’s home in Clearwater, fans gathered holding flowers, action figures, and posters. Some wore replica championship belts. Others shared tearful memories of meeting Hogan at fan conventions or watching his matches with their parents.
Social media lit up with hashtags like #RIPHulkHogan and #HulkamaniaForever, with thousands of users sharing photos and stories of how the wrestler had inspired them through difficult times.
“He taught us to believe in ourselves when nobody else did,” one fan wrote on X.
“He was the reason I started watching wrestling,” said another.
Final Moments and Funeral Plans
According to sources close to the family, Hogan had just returned home from a gym session the night before and was feeling “a little off.” His wife, Sky, called 911 immediately after he collapsed. Despite the best efforts of EMTs, Hogan was pronounced dead at the scene.
A private memorial service is expected to take place this weekend in Tampa, followed by a public tribute ceremony at Raymond James Stadium, home of WrestleMania 37. WWE is reportedly planning a week-long tribute across its platforms and events.
Remembering the Hulkster
Love him or not, Hulk Hogan was a force of nature. He inspired generations to chase their dreams, stand up for what they believed in, and — above all — never stop fighting.
In the end, Hogan leaves behind a legacy not just of championship gold, but of unforgettable moments, passionate fans, and a cultural imprint that transcended the squared circle.
As he used to say:
“Train, say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and believe in yourself.”
Rest in peace, Hulkster. You slammed giants, lifted spirits, and made millions of people believe they too could be champions.
