Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71

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CLEARWATER, Fla.  — Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life professional wrestling legend who became a global pop culture phenomenon, has died at age 71. Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away peacefully at his home in Clearwater, Florida, following a cardiac arrest. He was surrounded by family at the time of his passing. The news was confirmed by his longtime manager, Chris Volo, in a statement to NBC Los Angeles.

Standing at a towering 6 feet 7 inches and weighing over 320 pounds during his prime, Hogan was more than just a wrestler—he was an icon. With his signature blonde horseshoe mustache, flamboyant red-and-yellow ring attire, and larger-than-life charisma, Hogan became the face of professional wrestling in the 1980s and 1990s, captivating millions with his high-energy performances and electrifying personality. His “Hulkamania” movement transcended wrestling, transforming the once-niche sport into a mainstream entertainment juggernaut.

WWE released a statement honoring his legacy: “One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan’s contributions helped WWE achieve unprecedented global recognition in the 1980s and beyond. His presence defined an era and inspired countless superstars who followed in his footsteps.”

Throughout his storied career, Hogan headlined eight WrestleMania events, an unparalleled feat at the time. Perhaps his most iconic match came in 1987 at WrestleMania III, where he bodyslammed the 520-pound Andre the Giant in front of a then-record crowd of 93,173 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome. That moment is still regarded as one of professional wrestling’s most legendary and defining moments.

Hogan held the WWE Championship six times, and his catchphrases—”Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” and “Train, say your prayers, and eat your vitamins”—became slogans for an entire generation of fans.

Beyond the Wrestling Ring

Hogan’s appeal extended far beyond the squared circle. He made a successful crossover into Hollywood, appearing in films such as Rocky III (1982), where he portrayed Thunderlips, and starring in other movies like No Holds Barred, Mr. Nanny, and the cult-favorite Santa with Muscles. At the peak of his fame, Hogan was the most requested celebrity by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a testament to his immense popularity and influence on children.

His television appearances further cemented his status as a cultural mainstay. Hogan made memorable cameos on popular shows like Baywatch, hosted Saturday Night Live in 1985, and even had his own animated series, Hulk Hogan’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling. Later, his family life was showcased in the reality TV show Hogan Knows Best (2005-2007), which offered fans a glimpse into his personal world, alongside his then-wife Linda and children Brooke and Nick.

A Complex Legacy: Triumphs and Controversies

While Hogan’s contributions to entertainment are undeniable, his life was also marked by controversy. In 1996, he shocked fans by turning heel (villain) and forming the infamous wrestling faction New World Order (NWO) in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), adopting the moniker “Hollywood Hogan.” This move reinvigorated his career and played a pivotal role in the Monday Night Wars, a pivotal era in wrestling history.

However, in 2015, Hogan’s image suffered a significant blow when recordings surfaced of him making racially insensitive remarks. The backlash led to WWE temporarily removing him from their Hall of Fame and severing business ties. After public apologies and years of reflection, Hogan was reinstated into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2020, though the scandal remained a blemish on his otherwise illustrious career.

In recent years, Hogan became increasingly vocal in his political affiliations. A known supporter of former President Donald Trump, he made headlines when he unveiled a “Trump 2024” T-shirt during a surprise appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, signaling his alignment with the “Make America Great Again” movement.

Tributes Pour In

Following the announcement of his passing, tributes flooded social media from fans and celebrities alike. Former President Donald Trump described Hogan as “strong, tough, smart, with the biggest heart in the business.” Actor Sylvester Stallone, who worked alongside Hogan in Rocky III, remembered him as “a brilliant personality and a consummate showman.” Fellow wrestling legend Ric Flair posted an emotional tribute, calling Hogan an “incredible athlete, a transcendent talent, a loyal friend, and a devoted father.”

Hogan’s influence extended beyond the wrestling ring into the broader fabric of American pop culture. For decades, he embodied the quintessential larger-than-life entertainer, appealing to both hardcore wrestling fans and casual viewers alike. His presence was magnetic, his charisma unmatched, and his contribution to popularizing professional wrestling on a global scale remains unparalleled.

Survived by Family

Hogan is survived by his wife Sky Daily, whom he married in 2023, and his children Brooke, Nick, Jessica, and Louis. He leaves behind a legacy that is both celebrated and complex—a testament to his enduring impact on sports entertainment and American culture.

While debates about his controversies will continue, there’s no denying Hulk Hogan’s role as a transformative figure who revolutionized professional wrestling, redefined celebrity status, and left an indelible mark on generations of fans worldwide.