The world of professional wrestling and pop culture lost an icon on July 24, 2025, when Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, passed away at the age of 71. For decades, Hogan’s larger-than-life persona, signature bandana, and “Hulkamania” catchphrase made him a household name. His death has left fans, friends, and family mourning the loss of a man who transformed wrestling into a global phenomenon. According to reports, Hogan suffered a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida, and was pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital. Let’s explore the details surrounding his passing and reflect on his incredible legacy.
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The Cause of Death: Cardiac Arrest
Hulk Hogan’s cause of death was reported as a cardiac arrest, a sudden and life-threatening condition where the heart stops pumping blood effectively. The Clearwater Police Department confirmed that emergency services were dispatched to Hogan’s home at 9:51 a.m. on July 24 after a 911 call reported a cardiac emergency. Despite the efforts of first responders, Hogan was pronounced deceased at 11:17 a.m. at the hospital. Authorities noted no signs of foul play or suspicious activity, and a standard investigation is underway to confirm the details of his passing. Cardiac arrest can occur unexpectedly, often linked to underlying heart conditions or other health factors, and in Hogan’s case, his history of health struggles may have played a role.
Hogan’s Health Struggles in Recent Years
Hogan had been open about his health challenges, particularly in the years leading up to his death. The physical toll of his wrestling career, which spanned from 1977 to 2012, resulted in over 25 surgeries, including 10 back operations, knee and hip replacements, and shoulder procedures. In May 2025, he underwent neck surgery, which his representatives described as successful. However, rumors about his declining health, including false claims of a coma or being on his “deathbed,” had circulated in recent months. His wife, Sky Daily, and longtime friend Jimmy Hart refuted these, stating his heart was “strong” and he was recovering well. Despite these assurances, the strain of multiple surgeries and a lifetime of physical exertion likely contributed to his vulnerability to cardiac issues.
A Legacy That Defined Wrestling
Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler; he was a cultural phenomenon. His rise in the 1980s with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) turned wrestling into mainstream entertainment. His “Hulkamania” era, marked by his red-and-yellow gear and motivational catchphrases, captivated millions. Hogan won six WWE championships and headlined WrestleMania eight times, including the iconic 1987 match against Andre the Giant. His move to World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the 1990s, where he reinvented himself as the villainous “Hollywood” Hogan, further cemented his influence. Beyond wrestling, Hogan starred in films like Rocky III and the reality show Hogan Knows Best, making him a pop culture fixture.
Tributes Pour In from Around the World
Following the news of Hogan’s death, tributes flooded in from fans, wrestlers, and public figures. Wrestling legend Ric Flair called Hogan an “incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father,” while WWE’s Triple H described him as the archetype of a global superstar. Political figures like Donald Trump, whom Hogan supported at the 2024 Republican National Convention, praised his “electric” presence and “big heart.” Social media platforms, particularly X, buzzed with fans sharing memories of Hogan’s impact, from his iconic leg drop to his charismatic promos. His family’s statement on Instagram asked for privacy while encouraging fans to cherish the memories Hogan left behind.
Reflecting on Hulk Hogan’s Impact
Hogan’s passing is a moment to reflect on a man who transcended wrestling to become a global icon. His ability to connect with audiences, whether as a hero or a heel, made him unforgettable. Despite controversies, including a 2015 scandal involving racial slurs, Hogan’s contributions to wrestling and entertainment remain undeniable. As we mourn his loss, we celebrate the legacy of a man who inspired generations to “train, say their prayers, and eat their vitamins.” Hulk Hogan may be gone, but “Hulkamania” will indeed live forever.