Hulk Hogan, one of the most legendary figures in WWE history, has passed away at the age of 71. His death was confirmed by his longtime manager, Chris Volo, who told NBC Los Angeles that Hogan died peacefully at his home in Clearwater, Florida, surrounded by loved ones.
Born Terry Bollea, Hogan rose to global fame in the 1980s and 1990s, becoming an unparalleled icon in professional wrestling. He defined an era in the WWE and captivated millions with his charisma, strength, and larger-than-life personality.
He headlined the very first WrestleMania in 1985, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career filled with unforgettable rivalries. Hogan squared off against some of the biggest names in the business, including Andre the Giant, Randy Savage, The Rock, and even WWE chairman Vince McMahon himself.
During his illustrious career, Hogan claimed six WWE Championship titles. In 2005, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by none other than Sylvester Stallone.
But Hogan’s influence extended far beyond the ring. His appearances in films, television, and pop culture made him a household name worldwide. His VH1 reality series, Hogan Knows Best, offered fans a glimpse into his family life and further cemented his celebrity status.
In 2013, Hogan made headlines once again when he filed a $100 million lawsuit against Gawker for publishing a private video. He won the case, with a jury awarding him $140 million in damages. The verdict led to Gawker’s bankruptcy and eventual shutdown.
According to TMZ, Hogan died of cardiac arrest at home. US Weekly reports that earlier this month, he had undergone major heart surgery but was said to be recovering well afterward.
“Hulk underwent serious heart surgery a few weeks ago, and afterward he was doing fine,” a source close to WWE told US Weekly.
Fans around the world are mourning the loss of a true legend. Hulk Hogan’s name is synonymous with the golden age of American wrestling, and his legacy will live on for generations.
He is survived by his ex-wife, Linda Bollea, and their two children: 37-year-old Brooke and 34-year-old Nick.