In a heartbreaking turn, the roar of “Hulkamania” has gone silent. Legendary WWE superstar Hulk Hogan has passed away at age 71 following cardiac arrest at his Florida home.
This article honors Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea’s life—from his meteoric rise in the 1980s, through iconic rivalries and pop culture stardom, to the heartfelt tributes that are flooding in. Join us as we celebrate the man who made WWE a global phenomenon and whose legacy will live forever in the hearts of millions.
Table of Contents
The Life & Legacy of Hulk Hogan in WWE
Terry Gene Bollea, known worldwide as Hulk Hogan, was arguably the most influential wrestler of his generation. Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, he debuted in pro‑wrestling in 1977. However, it was his arrival at WWE (then WWF) in December 1983 that sparked a cultural revolution. His red‑and‑yellow persona, 24‑inch “pythons,” and the iconic catchphrase “Whatcha gonna do, brother?” turned him into a household name.
Hogan headlined eight of the first nine WrestleMania events, held six WWE titles, and became the face of “Hulkamania” throughout the 1980s. He was later inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice (2005 individually, 2020 as part of the nWo).
Final Moments & Cause of Death
On July 24, 2025, emergency services arrived at Hogan’s Clearwater, Florida residence around 9:51 AM after reports of a cardiac arrest. Paramedics immediately began life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. Initial reports suggest the arrest may have been triggered by complications from recent neck surgery. There were no indications of foul play.
Hogan is survived by his wife Sky Daily, and his two children, Nick and Brooke.
WWE & Peer Tributes
WWE formally expressed its grief in a statement: “WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away… extending condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Fellow wrestling legends and public figures shared heartfelt memories:
- Vince McMahon honored Hogan as “the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME,” applauding his role in globalizing wrestling.
- Ric Flair choked up recalling his friend: “He was always there for me… Our friendship has meant the world to me.”
- The Undertaker, Triple H, and even Donald Trump paid tribute, acknowledging Hogan’s influence inside and outside the ring.
Key WWE Career Highlights
| Year(s) | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 1983–1993 | Rise in WWF/WWE; 5× WWF Champion, WrestleMania face‑liner |
| 1996–1999 | “Hollywood Hogan” era & nWo leadership in WCW |
| 2002–2003 | Final WWE return; Undisputed WWF title |
| 2005 & 2020 | WWE Hall of Fame inductee (twice) |
Hulk Hogan’s passing leaves a void in sports entertainment, but his impact will echo for generations. Whether headlining WrestleMania, launching “Hulkamania,” or reinventing himself as Hollywood Hogan, he forever altered the WWE landscape. Share your memories, respect, and favorite Hulkster moments as we celebrate the life of a true legend.
FAQs
What was Hulk Hogan’s cause of death?
He passed away from cardiac arrest, possibly linked to complications from recent neck surgery.
When and where did Hogan die?
He died on July 24, 2025, at his home in Clearwater, Florida, then was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
How many WWE titles did Hulk Hogan win?
Hogan won at least six WWE (formerly WWF) Championships.
Was he in the WWE Hall of Fame?
Yes—inducted individually in 2005 and again in 2020 as part of the New World Order (nWo).
Who survives Hulk Hogan?
He is survived by his third wife, Sky Daily, and his children, Nick and Brooke Bollea.
