Hulk Hogan, Wrestling Legend and Pop Culture Icon, Dies at 71
Terry Gene Bollea, better known to the world as Hulk Hogan, passed away on July 24, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida, at the age of 71. A towering figure in professional wrestling and American pop culture, Hogan leaves behind a legacy that helped transform wrestling from a niche sport into a global entertainment phenomenon.
Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan’s journey to stardom began in the late 1970s, after a short career as a musician. Initially trained by Hiro Matsuda, Hogan made his professional wrestling debut on August 10, 1977, in Fort Myers, Florida, for Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF), facing Brian Blair. Despite early challenges, including a brief stint under a mask as “Super Destroyer”, Hogan’s charisma and sheer physical presence quickly made him a fan favorite.
He rose to international fame in the 1980s as the face of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). With his catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”, his signature leg drop finishing move, and his larger-than-life persona, Hogan became a symbol of American entertainment. He headlined multiple WrestleMania events, including the memorable showdown at WrestleMania V against The Ultimate Warrior, a bout that, despite his loss, only further cemented his legendary status.
Outside the ring, Hogan enjoyed a successful career in television and film. He appeared in movies such as “Rocky III” alongside Sylvester Stallone, where he portrayed the intimidating character Thunderlips, and starred in family-friendly films like “Mr. Nanny” and “Suburban Commando.” His reality TV series, “Hogan Knows Best,” offered fans a glimpse into his personal life and further expanded his public appeal.
Hogan was also an entrepreneur, television personality, and former rock bassist, showcasing a versatility that kept him in the public eye for nearly five decades. From his early days performing music in Florida clubs to co-owning Whitey and Hogan’s Olympic Gym, his entrepreneurial ventures were as diverse as his career.
He was married to Linda Claridge from 1983 to 2009, with whom he had two children: Brooke Ellen Bollea and Nicholas Allan Bollea. In 2010, he married Jennifer McDaniel.
Though his wrestling career officially ended in 2012, Hogan’s impact on the industry remained significant. He was a key figure in the wrestling boom of the 1980s and 1990s and was instrumental in shaping WWE (formerly WWF) into the entertainment powerhouse it is today. His influence extended to the New World Order (nWo) era during his time in WCW, where he reinvented himself as a heel, shocking fans and redefining wrestling storytelling.
Beyond the bright lights of the ring, Hogan never forgot his roots. In the early years, after walking away from CWF and declining offers from other circuits, he managed a private club in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and eventually opened a gym with his close friend Whitey Bridges. He remained connected to his friends and the fitness community throughout his life.
Hulk Hogan was more than just a wrestling icon — he was a cultural force. His name, image, and voice became synonymous with a generation of sports entertainment, inspiring countless young athletes and leaving a legacy that transcended the squared circle.
He will be remembered for his energy, charisma, and the indomitable spirit of “Hulkamania”, which continues to echo through wrestling arenas and the hearts of fans around the world.
Rest in peace, Hulk Hogan. Thank you for the memories.