Terry Gene Bollea, known globally as Hulk Hogan, has died at the age of 71. The WWE Hall of Famer and pop culture icon passed away on July 25, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida, following a cardiac-related medical emergency, leaving behind a legacy that forever changed professional wrestling and entertainment.
From Bodybuilder to Wrestling Legend
Born in 1953 in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in Tampa, Florida, Hogan’s rise began not in the ring, but in music and bodybuilding. It wasn’t until 1977 that he stepped into the squared circle — a move that would alter the course of his life and shape the future of pro wrestling.
Adopting his signature red-and-yellow gear and larger-than-life persona, Hulk Hogan quickly became a household name. With his booming voice, massive frame, and powerful leg drop, he ignited what became known as Hulkamania — a phenomenon that captivated millions around the world.
The Face of Wrestling’s Golden Era
By the 1980s, Hogan emerged as the face of the WWF (now WWE). He inspired fans with his mantra: “Train, say your prayers, and eat your vitamins.” As a six-time WWE Champion, he headlined countless events and played a pivotal role in elevating wrestling from a niche sport to global spectacle.
His unforgettable catchphrase, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” — echoed in arenas and living rooms across the world.
WrestleMania Pioneer and Showman
Hogan was more than a star — he was the main event. From teaming with Mr. T at the first WrestleMania in 1985 to slamming Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III, he became synonymous with WWE’s biggest stage. Over the years, he appeared in 10 WrestleManias, headlining eight — an unmatched record in wrestling history.
Hollywood Hogan and the NWO Era
As fan tastes evolved in the 1990s, Hogan reinvented himself. Turning heel in 1996, he joined WCW and co-founded the rebellious New World Order (NWO) with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash. As “Hollywood Hogan,” he embraced the dark side, reigniting fan interest and sparking the legendary Monday Night Wars between WCW and WWE.
A Pop Culture Powerhouse
Beyond the ring, Hogan became a pop culture staple. He starred in films like Rocky III, Mr. Nanny, and No Holds Barred, and appeared on shows like Saturday Night Live and Thunder in Paradise. His fame transcended wrestling, making him a global brand known to kids and adults alike.
Honored Legacy and Final Years
Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice — once individually in 2005, and again in 2020 as a member of the NWO. He continued to make appearances, including co-hosting WrestleMania 37 in 2021 and surprising fans at political events, including the 2024 Republican National Convention.
In 2023, he married Sky Daily. He is survived by her and his two children, Brooke and Nick, from a previous marriage.
Remembering The Immortal One
Tributes poured in from around the world. President Donald Trump described him as “strong, tough, smart, with the biggest heart,” while WWE Chairman Vince McMahon called him “the greatest WWE Superstar of all time.”
To fans, Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler. He was a cultural phenomenon, a symbol of strength, resilience, and charisma. His impact on sports entertainment is immeasurable, and though the man is gone, Hulkamania will live forever.
