Wrestling icon Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea has died at the age of 71, WWE confirmed. The announcement follows TMZ’s report that Hogan suffered a cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home and was rushed to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead
Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, and their two children. Known for helping propel professional wrestling into mainstream popularity, his death is being mourned by fans and peers alike.
๐ A Wrestling Career That Shaped a Generation
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Began wrestling in the late 1970s, joining the WWF (now WWE) in 1983 and quickly becoming its most recognizable star
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Revived his persona in WCW as “Hollywood” Hogan and co-founded the influential nWo faction.
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Throughout his career, Hogan was a 12-time world champion, headlining WrestleMania multiple times.
๐คผ♂️ Iconic Matches & Impact
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Famous rivalries include bouts against The Iron Sheik, Andre the Giant (WrestleMania III), The Ultimate Warrior, and The Rock (notably WrestleMania X8).
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His role in the nWo storyline during the 1990s was pivotal in WCW's ratings surge and resurgence
๐ฌ Beyond the Ring
Hogan’s charisma led him to roles in mainstream entertainment:
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Debuted in Rocky III as “Thunderlips”
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Starred in family-friendly films like Suburban Commando and No Holds Barred
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Led the reality show Hogan Knows Best with his family
๐ Health Issues and Final Moments
In recent years, Hogan faced chronic neck and back pain and underwent surgeries, including a major neck operation earlier this year Yahoo Sports+1The Sun+1. Though his wife Sky had assured fans he was recovering well, his sudden cardiac arrest brought an abrupt end.
๐ฌ Tributes Pour In
WWE, fellow wrestlers, and public figures shared heartfelt condolences:
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WWE released a tribute:
“WWE is deeply saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away… a pop culture icon.” Wrestling legend Ric Flair recalled Hogan's loyal friendship and support:
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“He was always there… prayed by my bedside when I had 2% chance to survive.”
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Figures like Donald Trump Jr., UFC’s Dana White, and Rep. Anna Paulina Luna also paid tribute.
๐ Hogan’s Complex Legacy
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Hogan was removed from the WWE Hall of Fame in 2015 over a racial slur, but was reinstated in 2018 after a public apology.
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His life included high-profile controversies, legal battles (notably the Gawker lawsuit), and close political ties, including support for former President Trump .
๐ Final Thoughts
Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea wasn’t just a wrestling superstar—he helped define an era. With blockbuster matches, memorable catchphrases like “Hulkamania,” and crossover fame in movies and TV, he became one of the most enduring figures in sports entertainment. His passing marks the end of an unforgettable legacy, but his influence continues.
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