Florida Declares “Hulk Hogan Day” to Honor Wrestling Icon After His Death at 71
CLEARWATER, FL — Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, whose iconic persona defined an era of sports entertainment, is being honored by the state of Florida following his death on July 24 at the age of 71. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has officially proclaimed Friday, August 1, 2025, as “Hulk Hogan Day” across the state, in tribute to the enduring impact of the two-time WWE Hall of Fame inductee.
The announcement, made via social media, emphasized Hogan’s contributions to American pop culture and his strong ties to Florida, where he lived for much of his life. “Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice, first in 2005 and again in 2020 as a member of the New World Order,” DeSantis wrote in a statement. “He was a true Floridian through and through.” As part of the tribute, both U.S. and Florida state flags were ordered to fly at half-staff at the Capitol and in Pinellas County, where Hogan had made his home in Clearwater for the past 13 years.
DeSantis concluded his message with a nod to Hogan’s signature style: “Rest in peace, brother.”
Born Terry Gene Bollea in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan was raised in Tampa, Florida, and would go on to become one of the most recognizable figures in professional wrestling history. Rising to fame in the 1980s and ’90s, he ignited a global phenomenon known as “Hulkamania,” becoming a household name for his larger-than-life personality, unmatched charisma, and iconic catchphrases.
Hogan’s impact extended well beyond the wrestling ring. His appeal crossed generational lines, and his image became a symbol of the golden age of wrestling. Whether defeating André the Giant at WrestleMania III or starring in action-packed film roles and reality television, the Hulkster remained a visible and celebrated presence in American entertainment for decades.
Tragically, Hogan died of an acute myocardial infarction — commonly known as a heart attack — at his Clearwater home. Emergency responders were called on July 24 after Hogan suffered a cardiac arrest, but despite being transported to a nearby hospital, lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful. He was 71 years old.
Medical records later confirmed that Hogan had been living with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a type of blood cancer, and had a history of atrial fibrillation, a condition that causes an irregular heartbeat. It remains unclear how long he had been battling these conditions or whether he had been undergoing treatment at the time of his death. His body is scheduled to be cremated in accordance with his family’s wishes.
Fans and fellow wrestlers across the world have expressed their grief and gratitude in the days since his passing. Many remember Hogan not only for his athletic achievements but also for his influence on the sport and entertainment industries. For those who grew up watching wrestling in the 1980s and 1990s, Hogan wasn’t just a performer — he was a symbol of strength, heroism, and resilience.
As “Hulk Hogan Day” is celebrated in Florida, his legacy lives on in the hearts of millions of fans who embraced the values he projected inside the ring: fight hard, stay strong, and believe in yourself. In the words that closed many of his electrifying promos, the world will remember forever what it meant to say: “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”