WWE icon Hulk Hogan passes away at 71 after cardiac arrest in Florida

WWE, on social media, confirmed Hulk Hogan's demise and extended its condolences to the wrestler's family and friends

American wrestling icon Terry Gene Bollea, famously known as Hulk Hogan, passed away on Thursday following a cardiac arrest at his home in Florida. He was 71. WWE confirmed his death on social media and extended condolences to his family and fans around the world. 

WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.  One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s.  WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.

— WWE (@WWE) July 24, 2025

 

Born on 11 August 1953 in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan rose to become one of the most recognisable faces in professional wrestling. With his signature handlebar moustache, bright bandanas, and unmatched charisma, he captivated audiences in the 1980s and was instrumental in bringing WWE -- then the WWF -- into mainstream prominence. 

 

 

Hogan's influence helped define wrestling’s golden age. A six-time WWE Champion and a central figure in the entertainment boom of the era, he headlined multiple WrestleMania events and became a global superstar. His persona was larger than life, underlined by his catchphrase encouraging fans to "train, say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and believe in yourself".

A career that defined an era

Hogan’s wrestling journey began in the late 1970s, but his career catapulted when he joined Vince McMahon’s World Wrestling Federation in 1983. Almost overnight, he became a household name, particularly after defeating The Iron Sheik in 1984 to win the WWE Championship. Draped in his trademark red and yellow, Hogan filled stadiums -- including the historic crowd of over 93,000 at the Pontiac Silverdome -- and became a regular presence on television, from Saturday Night Live to his own animated show.

 

He was the first wrestler to win back-to-back Royal Rumble matches, claiming victory in both 1990 and 1991. His rivalries -- with the likes of "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, King Kong Bundy, and the Ultimate Warrior --remain etched in WWE lore. Hogan also appeared in several television series including Hogan Knows Best, Thunder in Paradise, and China, IL.

Health struggles and final days

In recent months, Hogan had been recovering from multiple surgeries, including a major heart procedure in June, according to US Weekly. Just weeks ago, his wife Sky Daily dismissed rumours that he was in a coma, assuring that his heart was “strong” and that he was on the mend.

 

Speculation about his health had intensified earlier this year, with reports suggesting he was gravely ill. However, sources close to the wrestler had stated he was recovering well. Previous hospitalisations were reportedly linked to chronic neck and back issues, but his representatives insisted there was no immediate danger to his life at the time.

A lasting legacy

Beyond the ring, Hogan's impact on pop culture was immense. He not only revolutionised professional wrestling but also became a symbol of American showmanship and determination. His influence shaped generations of fans and wrestlers alike.

 

On the personal front, Hogan had two children -- Brooke and Nick -- from his first marriage to Linda. He later married Jennifer McDaniel, before eventually tying the knot with Sky Daily, who survives him.

 

Hulk Hogan leaves behind a towering legacy, not just in sports entertainment, but in the hearts of millions who grew up cheering for the “Real American”.