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CLEARWATER, FL – Terry Gene Bollea, known worldwide as the legendary professional wrestler Hulk Hogan, has passed away at the age of 71. Reports from Florida police and WWE confirmed his death on Thursday, July 24, 2025, following a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater.
Hogan, instantly recognizable by his distinctive blond handlebar mustache, red and yellow attire, and “Hulkamania” catchphrases, was arguably the most famous and influential figure in professional wrestling history. He became a global phenomenon in the 1980s, leading the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) to unprecedented heights of popularity.
Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan’s career spanned decades, marked by iconic matches against legends such as Andre the Giant, Randy “Macho Man” Savage, and The Rock. His charisma and larger-than-life persona transcended the wrestling ring, leading to roles in films like “Rocky III,” “No Holds Barred,” and the television series “Baywatch.”
In 1984, Hogan ignited “Hulkamania” when he defeated the Iron Sheik to claim the World Heavyweight Championship, a reign that solidified his status as a cultural icon. He later shocked the wrestling world by turning villain in 1996, forming the New World Order (NWO) and adopting the “Hollywood Hulk Hogan” persona, a move that revitalized his career and further boosted the industry’s reach.
Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005. While his career was not without controversy, including a period where he was removed from the WWE Hall of Fame due to racist language (he was later reinstated after apologizing), his impact on pop culture and the world of sports entertainment is undeniable.
In recent years, Hogan had reportedly faced various health challenges, undergoing numerous surgeries for back and other issues. Despite these struggles, his presence in the public eye remained strong, often seen supporting various causes and appearing at wrestling-related events.
WWE released a statement expressing their sadness, saying, “WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the globe, with fellow wrestlers, celebrities, and fans remembering the “Hulkster” and acknowledging his immense contribution to their lives and the entertainment world. He is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, and his children, Brooke and Nick Hogan.
