Hulk Hogan, the WWE superstar who transformed professional wrestling into a global phenomenon, has died at age 71.
Emergency responders were called to his Clearwater, Florida home on Thursday morning for a reported cardiac arrest, according to TMZ.
Clearwater Fire & Rescue personnel arrived at Hogan’s residence around 9:51am and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Police confirmed the incident but have not yet released additional details.
Just weeks earlier, Hogan’s wife, Sky, had dismissed rumors that he was in critical condition, stating his heart was ‘strong’ following a recent neck surgery. In May, his representatives confirmed he underwent a spinal fusion procedure but assured fans his recovery was progressing well.
Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan rose to fame in the 1980s as the face of WWF (now WWE), creating ‘Hulkamania’, a pop culture movement that made wrestling mainstream. His 1984 victory over The Iron Sheik for the World Heavyweight Championship cemented his status as an icon.
In 1996, Hogan shocked fans by turning villain and forming the New World Order (NWO) in WCW, further revolutionizing the industry. Beyond wrestling, he starred in films like Rocky III (1982) as Thunderlips and had his own TV shows.
Hogan had undergone numerous surgeries in recent years, including 10 back operations, knee and hip replacements, and shoulder procedures.
Despite his physical challenges, Hogan remained active, even appearing at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where his signature charisma electrified the crowd.
Hogan’s influence extended beyond wrestling—his yellow-and-red bandana, handlebar mustache, and catchphrases like ‘Whatcha gonna do, brother?’ became cultural staples. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice (1994 and 2005).
The wrestling world, including WWE, has yet to release an official statement. A police press conference is expected later Thursday.
Hulk Hogan’s death marks the end of an era for sports entertainment. From main-eventing WrestleMania to shaping WCW’s Monday Night Wars, his career spanned four decades and influenced generations of wrestlers.
Medical examiners have not yet confirmed the exact cause of death, though reports indicate cardiac complications. Hogan’s recent surgeries and years of physical strain from wrestling had taken a toll, as he frequently acknowledged in interviews.
WWE and other wrestling promotions are expected to honor Hogan with tributes in upcoming events. Meanwhile, fans worldwide are sharing memories of how Hulkamania shaped their childhoods.
Authorities will likely release further details in the coming days, including funeral arrangements. For now, the wrestling community mourns one of its most transformative figures.
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