WWE Legend Hulk Hogan Dies at 71: Wrestling Icon Remembered for Historic Career and Cultural Impact
Clearwater, Florida – July 24, 2025 | By Okafor Joseph for SpringnewsNG Media Limited
The world of professional wrestling is in mourning following the death of legendary WWE superstar Hulk Hogan. Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, passed away at the age of 71 after suffering a cardiac arrest in Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday morning.
WWE confirmed the devastating news in an official statement 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. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Authorities stated that Hogan was rushed to the hospital after a 911 call was placed, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
A Wrestling Icon with a Legacy Spanning Decades
Hogan rose to fame in the 1980s and became one of the most iconic figures in the history of sports entertainment. He won six WWE Championships and played a crucial role in launching WrestleMania, teaming up with Mr. T to headline the first edition of the event in 1985.
In one of wrestling’s most unforgettable moments, Hogan slammed and defeated Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III in 1987, solidifying his place as a global superstar. His legendary rivalry with the late “Macho Man” Randy Savage further boosted the popularity of the then World Wrestling Federation (WWF).
In 2005, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by Hollywood actor and close friend Sylvester Stallone.
Tributes Pour In from Wrestling Legends and Public Figures
Wrestling great Ric Flair posted an emotional tribute on social media, writing:
“I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @HulkHogan. Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business. An incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father!”
U.S. Vice President JD Vance also paid tribute to the late wrestler, calling him “a great American icon” and reflecting on Hogan’s influence as a childhood hero.
“The next time will have to be on the other side, my friend! Rest in peace,” Vance wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
A Crossover Star: From Wrestling to Hollywood
Hogan was not just a wrestling superstar — he was also a pop culture phenomenon. Known for his signature red and yellow attire, blonde hair, and trademark horseshoe moustache, he drew fans with charismatic promos and unforgettable catchphrases like, “Lemme tell ya something, Mean Gene!”
He made his Hollywood debut as Thunderlips in Rocky III (1982) and later starred in multiple movies and TV shows. In 1996, Hogan reinvented himself with the villainous “Hollywood Hogan” persona, leading the New World Order (nWo) faction during WCW’s rise in the “Monday Night Wars.”
Hogan returned to WWE in 2002 and had a classic showdown with The Rock at WrestleMania X8, a symbolic “passing of the torch” moment.
Final Years and Political Involvement
In recent years, Hulk Hogan remained a prominent figure in media and politics. He endorsed former President Donald Trump at the 2024 Republican National Convention, showing his continued influence outside the wrestling ring.
Hogan’s legacy spans generations, and he remains one of the most influential figures in wrestling history. His name, voice, and image helped transform WWE into a global entertainment powerhouse.
He is survived by his children and close family members. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.Rest in Power, Hulk Hogan – The Immortal One
