🕊️ Dead at age 71: Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea (1953–2025)
Terry Gene Bollea, famously known around the world as Hulk Hogan, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. His death, caused by cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home, marks the end of a monumental era in professional wrestling and global pop culture. Emergency services responded quickly, but he was pronounced dead at a local hospital shortly after arrival. No foul play was suspected.
Early Life and Meteoric Rise
Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in Tampa, Florida, Hogan began his professional wrestling career in 1977. With his commanding 6-foot-7 frame, charismatic interviews, and signature red-and-yellow gear, he quickly became the embodiment of 1980s wrestling glory.
By 1983, Hogan had become the centerpiece of the then-WWF, launching what became known as “Hulkamania“—a cultural phenomenon that helped transform wrestling from niche entertainment into a mainstream spectacle. Known for preaching the values of “training, saying your prayers, and eating your vitamins,” he headlined eight of the first nine WrestleManias and became one of the most recognized faces in global sports entertainment.
A Wrestling Icon
In the ring, Hulk Hogan was more than just a performer—he was a movement. His historic body slam of AndrĂ© the Giant at WrestleMania III is still considered one of wrestling’s most iconic moments. Hogan held multiple world championships across his career, including both WWF and WCW titles.
His 1990s heel turn as the leader of the New World Order (nWo) in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) redefined his career and revolutionized wrestling storytelling. Fans loved to hate “Hollywood” Hogan, and the nWo storyline helped WCW compete head-to-head with WWE during the famed “Monday Night Wars.”
Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice—once individually in 2005, and again in 2020 as a founding member of the nWo.
Hollywood and Pop Culture
Outside the ring, Hogan achieved celebrity status in television and film. He starred in movies such as Rocky III, No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny. He was also a frequent guest on talk shows and made memorable TV appearances on The A-Team, Baywatch, and more. In the mid-2000s, he starred in the reality TV series Hogan Knows Best, which offered an intimate, if controversial, look into his personal life.
Personal Life and Later Years
Hogan’s personal life was often under public scrutiny. He was married to Linda Hogan until 2009 and later married Sky Daily in 2023. He is survived by his two children, Brooke and Nick, both of whom were featured prominently in his reality TV ventures.
In his later years, Hogan remained active in the wrestling industry and frequently made special appearances for WWE. In 2025, he co-founded Real American Freestyle, a professional wrestling and combat-sport venture aimed at showcasing 
collegiate and Olympic-style athletes.
Hogan also became known for his political commentary, most notably his surprise appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he openly endorsed Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. While polarizing, the appearance reinforced his lifelong image as a larger-than-life, unapologetic showman.
An Enduring Legacy
Tributes to Hulk Hogan poured in from across the sports and entertainment world. Wrestling legends, fellow athletes, Hollywood stars, and fans around the globe expressed their admiration and grief. Vince McMahon called him “the greatest WWE Superstar of all time.” Ric Flair, John Cena, Dana White, and many others praised his impact on their lives and careers.
While Hogan faced his share of controversies—including high-profile lawsuits and fallout from private recordings that briefly cost him his place in WWE—he ultimately remained a beloved and deeply influential figure. His ability to rebuild his image time and again spoke to his tenacity, charisma, and deep connection with his fans.
The Man Behind the Muscles
Hogan was more than just his persona. Beyond the bandana, mustache, and 24-inch pythons, he was a trailblazer who redefined sports entertainment. He helped create the modern wrestling business, influenced generations of athletes, and carved out a place in pop culture rivaled by few others.
His catchphrases—“Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” and “Brother!”—will echo forever in wrestling arenas and fans’ memories. His life was a testament to power, resilience, reinvention, and enduring star power.
Farewell to a Legend
Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea leaves behind a towering legacy that transcends the squared circle. He lived loudly, boldly, and on his own terms. To millions, he wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a hero, a showman, and a symbol of unstoppable determination.
He is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, and his children, Brooke and Nick. A private funeral is expected to be held in Florida, with a public celebration of life to be announced by WWE in the coming days.
Rest in power, Hulk Hogan. The world will never forget the man who made the earth shake every time he stepped into the ring.
“Say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and believe in yourself.” — Hulk Hogan
