Global icon and WWE superstar passes away in Florida, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped entertainment
The world of professional wrestling and pop culture is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life legend who brought wrestling into the mainstream, has died at the age of 71.
According to the Clearwater Police Department, emergency services responded to a medical call at 9:51 a.m. ET on Thursday, July 24, at Hogan’s residence in Clearwater Beach, Florida. The nature of the call was reported as cardiac arrest.
Hulk Hogan — born Terry Gene Bollea — was treated by Clearwater Fire & Rescue crews on-site before being transported by Sunstar ambulance to Morton Plant Hospital. Despite resuscitation efforts, he was pronounced dead at 11:17 a.m. Authorities confirmed there was no foul play or suspicious activity.
A Sudden End to a Larger-Than-Life Legacy
Hogan’s passing marks the end of an era. For decades, he stood as the face of professional wrestling — a muscle-bound, bandana-wearing, vitamin-chugging superhero who captured the imagination of millions.
Known for his booming voice, signature poses, and catchphrases like “Say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and Hulkamania is runnin’ wild!”, Hogan became a household name in the 1980s and helped transform WWE (then WWF) from a regional spectacle into a global entertainment empire.
His battles with Andre the Giant, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper are etched in history. He headlined the first four WrestleMania events — including the legendary main event at WrestleMania III, where he body-slammed the 520-pound Andre in front of over 93,000 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome.
From Bodybuilder to Global Superstar
Born in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in Florida, Terry Bollea began his career as a bodybuilder before entering the world of professional wrestling. Under the guidance of legends like Ernie “The Cat” Ladd, he developed his persona and eventually caught the attention of Vince McMahon.
The Hulk Hogan character — a patriotic, clean-cut hero who fought for justice and American values — resonated with families and children across America. He wasn’t just a wrestler — he was a cultural phenomenon.
Hogan crossed over into mainstream entertainment with appearances in:
- Rocky III (1982) as wrestler Thunderlips
- Saturday Night Live
- His own animated series, Hulk Hogan’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling
- Reality TV, including Hogan Knows Best
He became one of the first true sports-entertainment superstars, paving the way for future icons like The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and John Cena.
Health Struggles and Resilience
Hogan’s life was not without challenges. Over the years, he endured multiple back and neck surgeries due to the physical toll of his wrestling career. In June 2024, E! News reported he had undergone successful neck surgery, with close friend and wrestling legend Jimmy Hart saying just days before his death that Hogan was “doing phenomenal.”
Despite past health concerns and rumors — including false claims of a coma — his wife, Skyler Bollea, had publicly reassured fans that Hogan was recovering and in good spirits.
Still, the sudden cardiac arrest that took his life serves as a reminder of the fragility of even the strongest among us.
Controversy and Redemption
Hogan’s legacy was briefly marred in 2015 when a racially offensive audio recording surfaced, leading to his temporary dismissal from WWE. He issued a public apology, calling the remarks “the biggest mistake of my life,” and underwent sensitivity training. WWE reinstated him, and he remains a WWE Hall of Famer (Class of 2005).
He also spoke openly about his struggles with prescription painkillers and mental health, using his platform to advocate for recovery and accountability.
Tributes from the Wrestling World
Within hours of the news, tributes poured in from across the globe.
- Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: “Hulk Hogan was the foundation. He carried this business on his back and made it possible for guys like me to live our dreams.”
- Triple H (Paul Levesque): “Hulkamania wasn’t just a movement — it was a revolution. He changed everything.”
- Vince McMahon: “There will never be another Hulk Hogan. He was the spark that ignited the industry. We’ve lost a giant — both in size and in heart.”
Even outside wrestling, stars from film, sports, and music expressed their grief, a testament to Hogan’s crossover impact on American culture.
Final Thoughts: Hulkamania Lives Forever
Hulk Hogan was more than a wrestler. He was a symbol of strength, resilience, and unapologetic optimism. He made kids believe in heroes. He made wrestling matter.
And though his heart has stopped, his legacy will never rest.
Rest in power, brother.
Hulkamania may have peaked — but it will never die.
