The Shocking News: Hogan’s Passing at 71
Terry Gene “Hulk Hogan” Bollea, the towering figure of professional wrestling, died on July 24, 2025, at age 71. Emergency responders rushed to his Clearwater, Florida, home after reports of cardiac arrest, and Hogan was pronounced dead at the hospital. WWE confirmed the heartbreaking news via X, stating they were “saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away” .
From Terry Bollea to “Hulkamania”: A Rise to Stardom
Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan skyrocketed to fame after joining WWF (now WWE) in December 1983 Wikipedia. His charismatic persona fueled a wrestling boom in the 1980s, headlining eight of the first nine WrestleMania events Known for the iconic “Hulkamania” catchphrase—“Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you!”—he captured at least six WWE titles, firmly cementing his status as a sports-entertainment titan.
Beyond the Ring: Hollywood Roles and Reality TV
Hogan’s star power extended far beyond wrestling. He appeared in Rocky III (1982) and starred in films like No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny. His family life was also televised in VH1’s hit reality show, Hogan Knows Best. His cross-media influence helped elevate wrestling into mainstream pop culture.
Legal Battles & Personal Controversies
Hogan’s life wasn’t without turmoil. In 2016, he won a monumental $115 million lawsuit against Gawker Media over a leaked sex tape, claiming privacy violations News 5 Cleveland WEWS+13Daily Herald+13Gulf News+13. In a shocking turn, a 2007 leaked audio in 2015 revealed Hogan using racist slurs, leading to his temporary WWE Hall of Fame removal—he was reinstated in 2018 Vanguard News+3ABC11 Raleigh-Durham+3The Cut+3. Despite the controversies, he remained a globally recognized figure.
Legacy and Public Reaction
Hogan’s passing drew widespread tributes. WWE praised him as “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures” New York Post+10Daily Herald+10Gulf News+10. Wrestling legends Ric Flair, Brutus Beefcake, and celebs like Sylvester Stallone and Donald Trump Jr. praised his influence BILD+2AP News+2New York Post+2. Flair’s eulogy emphasized Hogan’s loyalty and friendship, thanking him for unwavering support during tough times BILD+1New York Post+1.
Final Thoughts
Hulk Hogan’s death marks the close of a legendary chapter in sports entertainment. From his rise as the face of “Hulkamania” to his ventures in film and television, Hogan redefined what it meant to be a global wrestling icon. Despite personal controversies, his influence transcended generations—from the roar of the wrestling arena to the silver screen.
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