Hulk Hogan, Wrestling Icon, Dies at 71 Following Heart Complications
Clearwater, Fla. — Terry Gene Bollea, known worldwide as “Hulk Hogan,” died Thursday morning, July 24, 2025, at his home in Clearwater at the age of 71. Emergency crews were summoned shortly before 10 a.m. following a cardiac arrest, but resuscitation attempts failed. He was pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital.
In recent weeks, Hogan had been recovering from an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion neck surgery. His wife, Sky Daily, had reassured fans on Instagram that he was “on the mend” and in good spirits. The sudden collapse, therefore, came as a profound shock to loved ones and the global wrestling community.
A Titan of 1980s Wrestling
Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Bollea began his career in 1977. His meteoric rise began after signing with the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) in December 1983, where he quickly became the face of the wrestling boom.
With his flamboyant persona—complete with mustache, bandanna, and muscular physique—Hogan captivated fans worldwide. He headlined eight of the first nine WrestleMania events and held multiple WWF championships. His match against André the Giant on February 5, 1988, shattered viewership records with over 33 million viewers.
In 1994, Hogan controversially defected to World Championship Wrestling (WCW), reinventing himself as “Hollywood Hogan” and forming the New World Order (nWo). This heel turn helped fuel intense wrestling rivalries and contributed to WCW’s dominance during the "Monday Night War" era.
He captured the WCW Heavyweight Championship six times and headlined several marquee WCW events before returning to WWE in 2002.
Beyond Wrestling: Acting, Reality TV, and Business
Hogan transcended wrestling, earning roles in movies like “Rocky III,” “No Holds Barred,” and “Suburban Commando.” He starred in reality TV with “Hogan Knows Best” and appeared in commercials and TV shows.
In 2024, he launched Real American Beer and co-founded a wrestling promotion, Real American Freestyle, with Eric Bischoff. The inaugural show is scheduled for August 30, 2025, in Cleveland, but Hogan never lived to oversee it.
Health Struggles Throughout Career
Hogan’s health had long been a concern. He disclosed in 2024 that he'd undergone approximately 25 surgeries over the past decade—including procedures on his back, hips, shoulders, knees, and neck.
Despite rumors of deteriorating health or that he was nearing death, his representatives clearly dismissed them, stating there was “no reason to panic” and that his recent surgeries were successful. Just days before his collapse, his friend and former on-screen manager Jimmy Hart tweeted Hogan was “in phenomenal health”.
A Controversial Legacy
Hogan’s later years were marred by controversy. In 2013, he lost WWE Hall of Fame status—later reinstated in 2020—after resurfaced racist remarks and legal disputes over a sex tape. Nevertheless, WWE allowed his return and honored his central role in the company’s rise.
Despite controversies, he remained a polarizing yet influential figure who shaped both wrestling culture and American pop culture.
Outpouring of Tributes
WWE announced his passing and extended condolences to his family, calling Hogan “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures”.
Wrestling icons like Ric Flair and Charlotte Flair praised him for his friendship and mentorship. UFC President Dana White, NFL figures, politicians—including Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna—and former President Donald Trump Jr. also saluted his legacy.
Social media flooded with emotional tributes citing his theme music, shirt-tearing entrances, and signature “Whatcha gonna do, brother?” catchphrase.
Family and Personal Life
Hogan leaves behind his wife, Sky Daily; former wives Linda Hogan and Jennifer McDaniel; and two children, Brooke and Nick Hogan.
His ex-wife Linda posted a touching throwback photo from 1996 just days before his passing. Hogan was also known for a long-standing friendship with Jimmy Hart.
Enduring Impact and Future Projects
Widely credited with launching “wrestling’s golden age,” Hogan’s impact persists. Twice a WWE Hall of Famer, he played a vital role in forming the nWo and redefining wrestling’s entertainment value.
He was set to serve as commissioner for Real American Freestyle, whose inaugural event had been scheduled—and will now proceed as a tribute to him on August 30, 2025, in Cleveland.
Conclusion
Hulk Hogan was more than an athlete—he was a cultural icon. Through highs and lows, controversies and comebacks, the “Hulkster” remained a defining presence in mainstream entertainment.
As fans prepare to gather in tribute at arenas worldwide, they honor a life marked by stamina, spectacle, and reinvention. Though he is gone, the legacy of Hulk Hogan—his thunderous entrances, roaring “Real American” theme, and enduring charisma—will echo forever in rings and hearts.
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