Media Team
Renowned pro wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has passed away at 71, according to a report from TMZ Sports.
First responders rushed to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, early Thursday following reports of a cardiac emergency.
Onlookers noted multiple police cars and ambulances at the scene, with Hogan being carried out on a stretcher and transported to the hospital.
Just weeks before his death, Hogan’s wife, Sky, denied rumors circulating online that the WWE legend was in a coma, insisting his heart was “healthy” and he was recuperating well from recent medical procedures.
Originally named Terry Bollea, Hulk Hogan played a pivotal role in transforming professional wrestling into a worldwide phenomenon. Before his rise, wrestling had a smaller, dedicated audience. Hogan’s charm, over-the-top personality, and mainstream appeal made him the defining star of WWE in the ’80s, captivating fans of all ages.
In 1996, Hogan shocked fans by turning heel, joining the infamous New World Order (NWO) and rebranding as “Hollywood Hogan.” This bold move revitalized his career and ushered in wrestling’s most successful era.
Hogan was initially honored with a WWE Hall of Fame induction in 2005. However, following the release of a controversial private recording containing racist language, he was removed in 2015.
After winning a major lawsuit against Gawker over the leaked footage, Hogan was welcomed back by WWE in 2020, earning a second Hall of Fame induction, this time as part of the NWO.
Outside wrestling, Hogan built a successful Hollywood career. His acting debut came in 1982 with a standout performance as Thunderlips in Rocky III. He later starred in films like No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny. In the 2000s, his reality show Hogan Knows Best on VH1 gave fans a glimpse into his family life with wife Linda and their kids, Nick and Brooke.
Hulk Hogan’s lasting influence as a wrestling trailblazer and cultural icon remains etched in sports entertainment history.
