Hulk Hogan, Wrestling Icon and Pop Culture Powerhouse, Dies at 71

The larger-than-life wrestling legend and entertainer, known for ushering in Hulkamania and bringing professional wrestling into the mainstream, passed away from cardiac arrest at his Florida home.

Hulk Hogan, wrestling’s most recognizable figure and a global pop culture icon, has died at the age of 71.

The legendary wrestler, born Terry Bollea, passed away on Thursday morning, July 24, 2025, after suffering cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Paramedics were dispatched to the residence and transported Hogan to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“We are heartbroken,” said Hogan’s manager, Linda Bose, in a statement to Entertainment Weekly. “He was such a great human being and friend.”

A Giant in the Ring and in Hearts

Hogan’s career began in 1977, but it wasn’t until the early 1980s—when he signed with the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE)—that he truly became a household name. With his charismatic, patriotic persona, signature mustache, and “Hulkamania” brand of energy, Hogan helped elevate professional wrestling into a mainstream phenomenon.

He headlined WrestleMania eight times, won the WWE Championship six times, and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice—once in 2005, and again in 2020.

A Hollywood Star Beyond the Mat

Hogan’s appeal stretched well beyond the wrestling ring. He made his film debut opposite Sylvester Stallone in Rocky III and later starred in cult classics such as No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, Mr. Nanny, and Santa with Muscles. He also made memorable TV appearances on Baywatch, The A-Team, Spy Hard, and Robot Chicken, and co-hosted Saturday Night Live with fellow wrestler Mr. T.

His 2000s-era reality series Hogan Knows Best, featuring his then-wife Linda and children Brooke and Nick, gave fans an intimate—if at times dramatic—look at his life behind the fame.

Controversies and Comebacks

Hogan’s career wasn’t without turbulence. He faced backlash over his admitted steroid use, a highly publicized sex tape scandal, and public allegations of infidelity. In recent years, he became a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump. During a 2024 rally in New York, Hogan ripped off his shirt in true wrestling fashion to reveal a Trump/Vance tank top, drawing a wave of media attention.

A Legacy Etched in Pop Culture

Even amid controversy, Hogan’s place in wrestling history is indisputable. From body-slamming Andre the Giant to his unforgettable matches against The Ultimate Warrior, Randy Savage, and The Rock, Hogan’s presence helped shape an entire era of sports entertainment.

His signature moves, bandana-clad charisma, and booming catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?!” made him one of the most beloved figures in the history of WWE.

Final Chapter

Hogan officially retired from professional wrestling in 2012 but remained a prominent figure in pop culture and fan events. At the time of his death, he was married to Sky Daily, his third wife. He is survived by her, as well as his two children, Brooke and Nick.

His death marks the end of an era for wrestling fans around the world—but Hulkamania, as fans will forever say, will never die.