WWE Legend Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71

Fans celebrate the legacy of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan.

News Summary

The wrestling community is mourning the loss of Hulk Hogan, a legendary figure in professional wrestling. He passed away from cardiac arrest, leaving behind a rich legacy that includes 12 world championships and memorable appearances that shaped the sport. Hogan’s impact on wrestling and popular culture was immense, but his life also included controversies that followed him even after he stepped away from the ring. Tributes from fans and the WWE highlight his significant contributions to the wrestling world and beyond.

WWE Legend Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71

The wrestling world is mourning the loss of a true icon as Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. His untimely death, due to a cardiac arrest, occurred in Clearwater, Florida, early on Thursday morning. Authorities responded promptly to a 911 call regarding his medical emergency, but sadly, Hogan was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at Morton Plant Hospital. Thankfully, there were no signs of foul play or anything suspicious, as confirmed by the police.

A Look Back at a Legendary Career

Hogan was not just a wrestling star; he was a cultural phenomenon who played a pivotal role in putting professional wrestling on the global map in the 1980s. The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) expressed profound sadness over his passing, acknowledging him as one of the most recognizable faces in the industry. Many remember Hogan’s crowning moment as he headlined the very first WrestleMania in 1985, teaming up with none other than Mr. T to take on Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff. This groundbreaking event significantly boosted the mainstream acceptance of professional wrestling.

Fans will never forget Hogan’s iconic matchup against Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III, which drew an astonishing audience of around 80,000 at the Pontiac Silverdome. Incredibly, he was the main event in seven of the first eight WrestleManias, solidifying his status as a wrestling superstar. Over his illustrious career, Hogan snagged a total of 12 world championships, proudly winning six WWF/WWE Championships and six WCW World Heavyweight Championships. In 2005, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on the industry.

More Than Just Wrestling

Despite stepping away from the wrestling ring in 2012, Hogan continued to make waves in entertainment. He was actively involved in promoting his new wrestling promotion, Real American Freestyle, and was even in the works of opening a bar in New York City near the world-famous Madison Square Garden. His career wasn’t limited to wrestling rings; Hogan also ventured into Hollywood, starring in movies like Rocky III and landing a popular reality TV show titled Hogan Knows Best that aired on VH1 from 2005 to 2007. His charisma and those unforgettable catchphrases made him a fan favorite.

A Controversial Figure

Of course, Hogan was not without his controversies. He made headlines for a racial slur incident back in 2015, and a highly publicized lawsuit against Gawker Media regarding a private tape, which he ultimately won. Additionally, he was politically active, lending his support to Donald Trump at the 2024 Republican National Convention. Through it all, Hogan maintained a connection with his fans, sharing not just his triumphs but also his struggles and lessons learned from a controversial past.

Remembering a Legend

Hogan leaves behind a legacy that extends well beyond the wrestling ring. He is survived by his third wife, Sky Daily; his two children, Brooke and Nick; and his twin grandchildren, Oliver and Molly. As wrestling fans and the entire entertainment community reflect on his life, one thing is clear—Hulk Hogan was more than just a wrestler. He was a cultural icon whose influence will be felt for generations to come. From the roaring cheers of packed stadiums to his memorable Hollywood appearances, Hogan’s spirit will surely live on in the hearts of many.