🕊️ A Legend Departs
On July 24, 2025, the world learned that Hulk Hogan (real name Terry Gene Bollea) had died at age 71, at his home in Clearwater, Florida, from a cardiac arrest. Once the face of WWE and a fixture of 1980s pop culture, Hogan was mourned globally as a pioneering force in sports and entertainment
Trump’s Tribute: “A Great Friend”
Within hours, former President Donald Trump took to his platform on Truth Social, mourning Hogan as a “great friend”. He described him as:
“MAGA all the way – Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart.”
“He gave an absolutely electric speech at the Republican National Convention… one of the highlights of the entire week.”
“He entertained fans from all over the world, and the cultural impact he had was massive.”
“To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!”
Trump highlighted Hogan’s enthusiastic speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, recalling how it energized attendees and helped frame him as a cultural and political icon
A Friendship Rooted in Decades
Their friendship spanned more than 35 years, dating back to Hogan’s appearances at events such as Trump Plaza in the 1980s. Hogan famously headlined WrestleMania IV in 1988 at Trump Plaza—during a pivotal wrestling match that reportedly caught Trump’s attention
Hogan publicly supported Trump’s political rise, even wearing a “Trump-Vance” tank top in a dramatic moment during the RNC in 2024, demonstrating both fandom and the culture-war symbolism he came to embody
More Than Politics: Conservative Icons Unite
Trump’s reaction was echoed by other high-profile conservative voices. Vice President J.D. Vance shared poignant memories, recalling a promise of sharing beers in the afterlife. House Speaker Mike Johnson wrote of childhood memories and campaigning with Hogan, calling him a “giant in stature and in life
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also paid tribute, calling Hogan “our superhero” and recalling personal interactions as a youth growing up near Clearwater
The Broader Outpouring
The tribute saw wide-reaching reactions:
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Vince McMahon, former WWE CEO, declared Hogan the “greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME” and praised his global impact and dedication to fans
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Ric Flair, longtime wrestling rival and friend, shared a touching message referencing Hogan’s hospital bedside prayer during Flair’s darkest days, underlining their personal bond
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Sylvester Stallone, who worked with Hogan on Rocky III, called him “brilliant” and said his charisma made the film special—likely a nod to his iconic Thunderlips cameo
These public statements reflect Hogan’s blend of entertainment pedigree and political allegiance, through which conservative circles reclaimed him as a symbolic figure.
Trump’s Framing and Legacy Narratives
Trump’s tribute emphasizes Hogan’s alignment with the MAGA movement, presenting him not just as an entertainer but as a loyal supporter. The phrase “MAGA all the way” connects Hogan’s wrestling fame with Trump’s political brand, reinforcing a shared image of populist triumph and cultural bravado
The RNC moment he referenced—where Hogan dramatically ripped off his shirt to reveal Trump-Vance apparel—continues to resonate culturally as a symbol of spectacle meeting political theater
A Complex Legacy
Though memorial tones dominate, Hogan’s legacy is multifaceted. Despite his global fame and WWE record—12-time world champion and two-time Hall of Famer—his later years were tainted by controversies, including leaked racist comments that led to suspension by WWE. Trump and others focused their tributes on his enduring persona and friendship, largely sidestepping prior fallout
Trump’s message is less about redemption than remembrance—painting Hogan as a cultural warrior, unabashed in his politics and generous in personality.
What It Means
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For Trump supporters, the death of Hogan is symbolic: the passing of an entertainer who effortlessly merged athleticism, patriotism, and political alignment.
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For Hogan’s broader fan base, the tributes from across political and wrestling lines remind us of the weight of legacy—both positive and complicated.
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For cultural history, Hogan’s character—flamboyant, unapologetic, and larger-than-life—continued to attract polarizing response. His connection with Trump encapsulates the intersection of celebrity, fandom, and modern political identity.
Final Reflections
Donald Trump’s statement on Truth Social goes beyond condolence—it’s a signal: Hogan was one of their own. A friend and ally whose impact wasn’t confined to the ring but extended into policy rallies, presidential conventions, and conservative storytelling.
While Hogan’s life had its ups and downs, Trump’s tribute frames him as a steadfast cultural figure who knew his audience, backed his politics, and lived loudly. He’ll be remembered—not just as “The Hulkster”—but as a fixture of Americana and an unexpected political icon when viewed through Trump’s narrative lens
