Hulk Hogan, Pro-Wrestling Superstar and TV Personality, Dies at 71
The world of professional wrestling has lost one of its most iconic figures. Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life star who became synonymous with the WWE and revolutionized the world of wrestling, passed away at the age of 71. The WWE confirmed the news on July 24, 2025, and shared a heartfelt statement expressing their condolences to his family, friends, and fans. “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.”
Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, became a household name, both inside and outside the wrestling ring. Standing at 6’6″ (or taller, depending on the day) and weighing over 300 pounds, Hogan’s larger-than-life persona and wrestling moves made him an undeniable force in the industry. His signature “24-inch pythons” and the famed catchphrase “Whatcha gonna do, brother?” were part of what made him the face of professional wrestling for over three decades.
Hogan’s career began in 1979, making his debut at Madison Square Garden and setting the stage for a legendary run with the WWE. With his bold personality, flamboyant costumes, and unapologetic showmanship, Hogan was instrumental in transforming professional wrestling from a niche spectacle into the global entertainment empire it is today. His countless victories in the ring, including 12 world championships, helped cement his place as one of the greatest and most influential wrestlers of all time.
Beyond his wrestling legacy, Hogan’s influence extended into popular culture. He appeared in 15 movies, with his most famous role being in Rocky III (1982), where he starred alongside Sylvester Stallone. Hogan’s acting abilities were praised by his co-stars, with Stallone noting his power and precision in delivering punches. The 1985 Grammys saw him as a bodyguard for Cyndi Lauper, which marked another step in his cultural relevance. In addition to his film career, he became a reality TV star in the early 2000s with his show Hogan Knows Best, giving fans a glimpse into his personal life with his then-wife Linda, and their children Brooke and Nick.
Hogan’s personal life was often as tumultuous as his wrestling career. His divorce from Linda Hogan, after 24 years of marriage, brought scandals to the surface, including infidelities and a notorious sex tape scandal. His reputation was further tarnished by the exposure of racist comments he had made, a stain on the “good guy” image he had built for years. Despite the controversies, Hogan took responsibility for his actions, stating, “I have a ton of scars… but it’s about standing up, owning it, and moving forward.”
The WWE Hall of Fame inducted Hogan twice—first in 2005 as an individual and again in 2020 as part of a wrestling team. Hogan’s influence on the wrestling world cannot be overstated. He was an integral part of WWE’s rise to global prominence during the 1980s, and his charisma and dedication to the craft pushed the boundaries of what professional wrestling could achieve.
Known for his confidence, charisma, and boundless energy, Hogan not only dominated in the ring but also became a pop culture icon. His matches with legends like Sgt. Slaughter, André the Giant, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson became monumental moments in the history of wrestling. The 1985 Sports Illustrated cover dubbed him “Wrestling’s Top Banana,” and as Sports Illustrated noted, “Hogan pushed the industry to new levels and created the multi-billion dollar business it is today.”
Hogan’s health struggles were apparent in his later years, as he underwent numerous surgeries related to his back and neck following a quad bike accident in 2003. Despite these obstacles, Hogan remained a fixture in the wrestling world and beyond, always returning to the ring with the same energy that made him a star. But it was the cardiac arrest that ultimately claimed his life in July 2025, after years of entertaining fans around the world.
Hulk Hogan’s passing marks the end of an era in professional wrestling, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. His larger-than-life persona, unforgettable matches, and contributions to the entertainment world have made him an icon whose influence stretches beyond the wrestling ring. Fans and loved ones will remember Hogan not just for his legendary career, but for the larger-than-life spirit that he carried with him every time he stepped into the ring. Rest in peace, Hulk Hogan. Your legacy will live on.