The wrestling world and beyond are mourning the loss of a true icon, Hulk Hogan, who has passed away at the age of 71. The legendary WWE star, whose real name was Terry Bollea, reportedly died on Thursday morning at his Clearwater, Florida home. Hulk Hogan’s death came as a shock to the wrestling community. While an official cause has not yet been released, initial reports from TMZ suggest he experienced “cardiac arrest.” News of Hulk Hogan’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from a diverse range of public figures, highlighting the immense impact he had on popular culture.
Tributes by Wrestling Legends on Hulk Hogan’s Death
Almost all wrestlers paid tribute to the wrestling legend. Here are a few notable names who praised Hogan for his services to the wrestling business.
The Undertaker: On X (formerly Twitter), The Undertaker stated, “Today the wrestling world lost a true legend. I appreciate everything Terry Bollea did for the business and his immeasurable contributions to our industry. My condolences to his family, friends, and fans. Rest in peace, Hulk Hogan.”
Ric Flair: “I am absolutely devastated to hear about the passing of my dear friend and brother, Hulk Hogan,” Ric Flair shared. “We have been friends for decades, and he was always there for me, whether it was when I was in the hospital or when my son was sick. He was truly a one-of-a-kind individual, and his impact on wrestling will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, my friend. Woooo!”
Triple H: WWE Chief Content Officer, Triple H, posted on Instagram, “WWE wouldn’t be where it is Today without larger-than-life characters like Hulk Hogan. He was the archetype of a Superstar, an iconic figure who transcended and elevated the entire business. Thank you for everything, Hulk. Rest in peace.”
Vince McMahon: Former WWE CEO Vince McMahon issued a rare statement following Hulk Hogan’s death, calling him “the greatest WWE superstar of all time” and someone “loved and admired around the world.” McMahon highlighted Hogan as a trailblazer who transitioned from a wrestling star to a global phenomenon, praising his “grit and unbridled thirst for success” that made him the consummate performer. He noted that Hogan “gave everything he had to the audience whom he appreciated, respected, and loved.” McMahon concluded his tribute by referencing one of Hogan’s favorite expressions: “Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers,” adding, “Today, we pray for him.”
Celebrities and the US President pay Tribute After Hulk Hogan’s Death
Among those offering their condolences was President Donald Trump, who fondly remembered Hogan as “MAGA all the way.” Vice President JD Vance also shared his grief, recalling Hogan as “one of the first people I ever truly admired as a kid.”
The sports world also weighed in, with NBA star Dennis Rodman sharing personal photos and describing Hogan as a “great friend.” Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone, who notably worked with Hogan in Rocky III, praised him as a “brilliant personality and showman” whose unique skill made their collaboration “incredibly special.”
Even in his later years, Hogan remained dedicated to the world of wrestling. Chad Bronstein, CEO of Real American Freestyle, a new wrestling league co-founded by Hogan, affirmed that the organization would continue to honor his legacy. Bronstein emphasized Hogan’s belief that wrestling transcended mere entertainment, a sentiment that resonated deeply with fans worldwide.
Hulk Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky, his ex-wife, Linda, and his children, Brooke and Nick. His larger-than-life persona and indelible contributions to professional wrestling will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come.
Hulk Hogan’s Most Iconic Wrestling Moments
Hulk Hogan, the quintessential embodiment of “Hulkamania,” transcended professional wrestling to become a global phenomenon in pop culture. His career was dotted with electrifying moments that captivated millions and forever changed the landscape of sports entertainment. Hulk Hogan’s career best moments spanned all three decades of his active wrestling days.
One of the most defining moments in his illustrious career occurred at WrestleMania III in 1987, when Hogan famously body-slammed the colossal André the Giant. In front of over 93,000 roaring fans at the Pontiac Silverdome, Hogan hoisted the seemingly immovable 520-pound giant, delivering a thunderous slam that remains one of the most replayed and iconic feats of strength in wrestling history. This victory solidified his status as the industry’s ultimate hero.
The very spark of “Hulkamania” ignited in January 1984 when Hogan defeated The Iron Sheik to capture his first WWF Championship at Madison Square Garden. This pivotal win didn’t just mark him as a champion; it launched an era. With his vibrant red and yellow attire, flexing muscles, and calls to “train, say your prayers, and eat your vitamins,” Hogan inspired a generation of “Hulkamaniacs.”
Years later, Hogan shocked the world with his controversial “heel” turn at WCW Bash at the Beach in 1996. Abandoning his beloved red and yellow for the black and white of the New World Order (nWo), Hogan joined Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, forever altering the wrestling landscape. This unexpected shift from hero to villain, while initially met with scorn, ultimately led to some of the most compelling storylines of the era, proving his ability to reinvent himself and draw massive attention regardless of his alignment.
Finally, the “Icon vs. Icon” dream match at WrestleMania X8 in 2002 against The Rock showcased Hogan’s enduring star power. Despite being the “heel” nWo member, the Toronto crowd erupted with an overwhelming wave of support for Hogan, proving that the spirit of Hulkamania still ran wild. This generational clash was a testament to Hogan’s unparalleled connection with the audience, cementing his legacy as one of wrestling’s most magnetic and influential figures.
Hulk Hogan’s Records in the Wrestling Business
Hulk Hogan’s wrestling record is among the most impressive and impactful in the history of professional wrestling, characterized by numerous championship reigns and groundbreaking achievements that elevated the sport to mainstream prominence.
He is most renowned for his six reigns as WWF/WWE Champion, with his initial run from 1984 to 1988 lasting an incredible 1,474 days – the longest of the WrestleMania era. Hogan also achieved six reigns as WCW World Heavyweight Champion, leading the company during the intense “Monday Night Wars” in the late 1990s as the controversial leader of the New World Order (nWo). In total, he was a 12-time World Champion across WWE and WCW.
Beyond title wins, Hogan holds several notable records:
- He was the first wrestler to win consecutive Royal Rumble matches in 1990 and 1991.
Hogan main-evented eight of the first nine WrestleManias, a testament to his unparalleled drawing power. - His 1988 match against André the Giant on “WWF The Main Event” garnered a remarkable 33 million viewers, setting a record for the highest-rated wrestling match in American television history.
- He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice: individually in 2005 and again in 2020 as a member of the nWo, a rare distinction acknowledging his impact in different eras and roles.
Hogan’s records are not just about numbers; they reflect his ability to consistently headline major events, sell out arenas, and influence generations of fans, solidifying his status as one of the most recognized and influential figures in sports entertainment history. Hulk Hogan’s death has remained a shock for everyone so far.
FAQS for Hulk Hogan
When did Hulk Hogan die?
Hulk Hogan passed away on 24 July 2025, at the age of 71. TMZ, WWE, and other sources confirmed Hulk Hogan’s death.
How did Hulk Hogan die?
Hulk Hogan (real name Terry Bollea) passed away at the age of 71 at his home in Clearwater, Florida. While an official cause of death has not been confirmed, initial reports from TMZ suggest he suffered from cardiac arrest.
What were Hulk Hogan’s most iconic wrestling moments?
Hogan’s legendary career included unforgettable highlights:
- Body-slamming André the Giant at WrestleMania III (1987).
- Winning his first WWF Championship from The Iron Sheik (1984).
- Turning heel and forming the nWo in WCW (1996).
- Facing The Rock at WrestleMania X8 (2002) in an “Icon vs. Icon” match.
What records did Hulk Hogan hold in wrestling?
Hogan’s historic achievements include:
- 6-time WWF/WWE Champion (including a 1,474-day reign).
- 6-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion.
- First back-to-back Royal Rumble winner (1990 & 1991).
- Main-evented 8 of the first 9 WrestleManias.
- Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice (2005 & 2020 with the nWo).
