Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. With his death, professional wrestling says goodbye to one of its game-changing icons—a man whose story is filled with triumph, controversy, and a charisma that rocked audiences for more than four decades.
The Rise of Hulkamania
Hogan helped push wrestling into mainstream pop culture. Rising to fame in the 1980s and 1990s, he wore bold red-and-yellow gear, sported the famous mustache, and shouted catchphrases like, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” Fans of all ages imitated his poses and cheered his dramatic comebacks.
Outside wrestling, Hogan crossed into entertainment, acting in movies like “Rocky III” and starring in TV shows such as “Hogan Knows Best.” He made wrestling feel bigger than life, and his influence stretched far beyond the ring.
Greatest Moments in the Ring
- WrestleMania III: Hogan’s win over Andre the Giant in 1987 became one of wrestling’s most legendary moments.
- nWo Formation: In 1996, Hogan shocked everyone by turning “bad guy” and forming the New World Order in WCW, helping WCW eclipse WWE in ratings during the late 1990s.
- Hollywood Hogan: His return to WWE in 2002 and famous match against The Rock at WrestleMania 18 proved his drawing power had no age limit.
He also won many titles, entered the WWE Hall of Fame multiple times, and inspired generations of wrestlers.
Tougher Times and Controversy
Hogan’s personal and professional life was not without its lows.
- In 2012, a sex tape leak revealed racist remarks, which led WWE to remove him from Hall of Fame recognition for a period. He apologized and acknowledged the pain his comments caused, but they changed his reputation forever.
- He spoke openly about his battles with substance abuse, admitting to at least 25 surgeries and prescription drug dependency.
- Legal issues, public struggles, and thoughts of suicide showed fans the human side of the wrestling legend.
His Final Days
In the last months of his life, Hogan was plagued with health issues. He’d recently undergone neck surgery and faced complications. On July 24, 2025, emergency services responded to his Clearwater, Florida home for a cardiac arrest. He was taken to the hospital but pronounced dead soon after.
Fans have begun to pay their respects at his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, leaving candles, flowers, and wrestling memorabilia for their hero.
Reflections and Tributes
Reactions to his passing poured in from all corners:
- Fellow wrestlers and fans remembered his unmatched energy and ability to connect with crowds.
- WWE and political leaders, as well as thousands of fans, shared condolences and stories highlighting both his achievements and challenges.
Hulk Hogan: Legacy and Lessons
Hulk Hogan changed what it meant to be a wrestling superstar. His “larger than life” persona, memorable storylines, and impact on global wrestling never fade. But his life also reflects the pitfalls of fame, the weight of personal choices, and the importance of humility.
He leaves behind a complicated but unforgettable legacy—a superstar, a cautionary tale, and a reminder that beneath every legend lies a real and flawed person.
Key Takeaways
- Hulk Hogan was one of wrestling’s true icons, famed for his charisma and influence on pop culture.
- He struggled with controversies and serious health issues later in life.
- His passing marks the end of an era for the sport, but his legacy, both positive and negative, will be remembered for years.
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