Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, has passed away at the age of 71. Renowned as a wrestling icon, Hogan played a pivotal role in transforming professional wrestling into a mainstream cultural phenomenon during the 1980s and beyond. Authorities in Clearwater, Florida, reported responding to a call regarding a cardiac arrest on Thursday morning, and Hogan was subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital, according to a police statement shared on Facebook.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) expressed its sorrow over the loss of the WWE Hall of Famer on X, emphasizing Hogan's significant impact on global recognition for WWE during the 1980s. The organization extended its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and devoted fans.
Hogan became a household name through his work with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), which later became WWE. He was easily recognizable for his trademark handlebar mustache, vibrant red-and-yellow ring attire, and his iconic battle cry, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” This persona resonated with audiences and solidified his status as one of pop culture's most recognizable figures.
During the height of his career in the 1980s, Hogan became a marquee star by headlining several WrestleMania events. His larger-than-life presence extended beyond wrestling as he ventured into Hollywood, starring in films like Rocky III (1982) and comedies such as Suburban Commando (1991), Mr. Nanny (1991), and Spy Hard (1996).
After his initial success with WWE, Hogan transitioned to World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the 1990s, where he reinvented himself as the villainous leader of the New World Order (nWo) faction. This move is considered one of the most iconic storylines in wrestling history. Hogan made a successful return to WWE, culminating in his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, followed by a second induction as a member of the nWo in 2020.
Throughout his life, Hogan faced numerous health challenges, including undergoing multiple spinal surgeries. Reports indicate that he had more than a dozen back operations, highlighting the physical toll of his wrestling career. He was also involved in a lawsuit against a Florida-based spine center, citing allegations of malpractice that he claimed contributed to his long-term physical decline.
In addition to his health struggles, Hogan made headlines in 2016 when a Florida jury awarded him a significant $115 million in a lawsuit against Gawker Media. This lawsuit stemmed from Gawker's publication of a private sex tape featuring Hogan, which he argued was a violation of his privacy rights.
Hogan's personal life includes two children, Brooke and Nick Bollea. He was married three times: first to Linda Claridge, then to Jennifer McDaniel, and most recently to Sky Daily. Throughout his career, Hogan maintained a strong connection with his fans and influenced many future wrestlers, shaping the wrestling landscape for generations.
From his illustrious wrestling career to his significant impact on popular culture, Hulk Hogan's legacy continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
