Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Dies at 71

One of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history, Hulk Hogan, has died at the age of 71.

WWE confirmed the news Thursday, sharing that Hogan — born Terry Bollea — passed away in Clearwater, Florida. According to TMZ, medics responded to a cardiac arrest call at his home, and he was transported by ambulance.

Hogan was more than just a pro wrestler — he was the wrestler who turned the then-WWF into a global phenomenon in the 1980s. With his larger-than-life personality, signature mustache, and unforgettable catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?!,” Hogan brought wrestling into the mainstream.

He wasn’t just a ring performer. He was pop culture.

The WWE released a tribute on social media, 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.”

At his peak, Hogan was everywhere — from cereal boxes to Saturday morning cartoons. WrestleMania wouldn’t be what it is today without him. He headlined the very first one in 1985, teaming up with Mr. T to take down Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff.

And then he bodyslammed Andre the Giant in front of 93,000 fans at WrestleMania III — one of the most famous moments in wrestling history.

In recent years, Hogan battled several health issues. TMZ reported a neck surgery in May, and US Weekly noted he underwent a “pretty serious” heart procedure in 2024.

Hogan was married three times and had two children, Brooke and Nick, with his first wife, Linda. He remarried in 2010 (to Jennifer McDaniel), divorced again in 2022, and tied the knot once more in 2023 with Sky Daily.

His final WWE appearance came in January 2025, during the Netflix debut of Monday Night Raw.

From body slams to red-and-yellow bandanas, Hulk Hogan’s influence stretched far beyond the squared circle. He was, simply, the face of an era.

Rest in peace, Hulkster.