Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan passes away

Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea, wrestling icon and pop culture figure, died Thursday at age 71, WWE announced. His death followed a reported cardiac arrest at his Clearwater Beach residence. He was pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital.

Hogan is survived by his third wife, Sky Daily, and his two children, Brooke and Nick. He had previously been married to Linda Claridge and Jennifer McDaniel.

Rising to fame in the 1980s, Hogan was instrumental in transforming the WWF (now WWE) into a global brand under Vince McMahon. Known for his charisma, signature look, and catchphrases, Hogan became the face of professional wrestling. His 1987 WrestleMania III match against Andre the Giant remains one of the most iconic in wrestling history.

In the 1990s, Hogan joined WCW and reinvented himself as a villain by forming the New World Order (NWO), helping WCW dominate WWE in TV ratings for over a year. He returned to WWE in 2002, most notably facing The Rock at WrestleMania 18.

Beyond wrestling, Hogan crossed into Hollywood with roles in Rocky III, Mr. Nanny, and the TV series Thunder in Paradise. He also starred in the reality show Hogan Knows Best.

His career was marred by controversies, including legal battles, a sex tape scandal, and racist remarks that led to WWE cutting ties with him in 2015 before later reconciling.

Recently, Hogan was involved in launching Real American Freestyle, a new wrestling league, and had opened a memorabilia shop and beer company. He also played a visible role in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, introducing Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention.

Wrestling organizations and fans worldwide are mourning the loss of one of the sport’s most influential figures.