Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Dead at 71 After Apparent Cardiac Arrest
WWE superstar Hulk Hogan—whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea—has died at the age of 71, TMZ reports. Emergency services were dispatched to his Clearwater, Florida, residence early Thursday morning, when a 911 operator received a call about a possible cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, paramedics attempted CPR but were unable to revive Hogan, who was later pronounced dead.
Details are still emerging, but early reports indicate the collapse happened at home, and by the time ambulances and police reached the scene, Hogan was unresponsive. He was taken out on a stretcher and transported to a nearby hospital, where medical personnel officially confirmed his passing.
The cause of death has been reported as cardiac arrest, reportedly following a brief period of struggling with health issues. Nevertheless, his passing caught many by surprise.
A Career That Redefined Wrestling
Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Terry Bollea emerged on the wrestling landscape in the late 1970s before skyrocketing to fame in the WWF (now WWE). Under the moniker "Hulk Hogan," he became the ultimate embodiment of 1980s wrestling excess. With his iconic blonde horseshoe mustache, bandana, hulking physique, and charismatic “Hulkamania” persona—including the legendary catchphrase, “Whatcha gonna do, brother?”—he anchored eight of the first nine WrestleMania main events.
His dominance extended beyond WWF: he became the first wrestler to win consecutive Royal Rumble matches in 1990 and 1991 and starred in blockbuster matches—most notably his bout with André the Giant in 1988, a TV event that drew a staggering 15.2 Nielsen rating and 33 million viewers. Later, as “Hollywood” Hogan, he led the New World Order (nWo) in WCW, a storyline pivotal to the “Monday Night Wars.” In total, Hogan was a six-time WWF/E Champion, a six‑time WCW Heavyweight Champion, and the first wrestler inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice (2005 as a solo inductee, 2020 with the nWo).
Beyond wrestling, Hogan carved out a high-profile entertainment career, appearing in films like Rocky III and No Holds Barred, hosting Hogan Knows Best, starring in Thunder in Paradise, and endorsing major ad campaigns. His booming charm brought wrestling to mass-market attention and opened new doors for sports entertainment.
Health Struggles in His Later Years
Hogan’s larger-than-life career left a physical toll. He underwent multiple surgeries—among them spinal fusions and neck operations. In December 2010, he sued the Laser Spine Institute over alleged malpractice tied to unsuccessful back surgeries.
In recent months, he was hospitalized yet again for treatment of long-standing neck and back problems, prompting rumors he was on his deathbed. In mid-June, TMZ Sports sourced Hogan’s representative, who called those claims “bogus” and confirmed he was recovering steadily after his latest procedure.
Despite these health scares, Hogan’s wife, Sky Bollea had publicly assured fans that his heart was “strong” and that he was in recovery mode.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Hogan’s death marks the end of an era for wrestling and pop culture. As one of the most iconic (and controversial) figures ever to enter the squared circle, he helped propel wrestling into the mainstream and introduced the boisterous, entertainment-first style that characterizes professional wrestling today.
Hulk Hogan was a notably energetic supporter of Donald Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance, during the 2024 campaign cycle. On July 18, 2024, the wrestling icon took the stage at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum, where he ripped off his blazer and shirt to reveal a red “Trump–Vance” tank top underneath.
A polarizing figure, Hogan’s career wasn’t without tumult. His personal life included a high-profile 2015 scandal involving racist remarks that led to a brief removal from WWE before a gradual return. Yet even amid controversy, Hogan’s popularity endured, evidenced by his presence in films, ads, video games, and a loyal legion of fans.
Memorial Tributes and Continuing Story
WWE issued a brief statement mourning the loss, and fellow wrestlers, athletes, and celebrities have taken to social media to honor Hogan’s influence and send condolences to his family. Memorial plans and a funeral service have yet to be announced.
At 6’7″ and over 300 pounds, Hogan towered physically—but it was his larger-than-life personality that defined him. He inspired countless wrestlers who came after him and shifted how entertainment and athletics intersect in the modern era.
Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea was more than a wrestler—he was a cultural phenomenon who helped forge the multi‑billion‑dollar landscape of modern televised wrestling. He leaves behind a vast legacy of titles, matches, films, and a devoted global fanbase. Though he’s gone, “Hulkamania” will live on in the hearts of millions.
In the coming days, more details will likely emerge as WWE and Hogan’s loved ones release official messages and due tribute.
He wasn’t just a wrestler. He was a hero to millions. Share this with someone who knows wrestling was never the same after Hulk Hogan.