Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life wrestling superstar who became the defining face of professional wrestling in the 1980s before transitioning into a Hollywood career, has passed away at the age of 71.
Reports from NBC News, citing his manager Chris Volo, confirmed that Hogan died at his Florida residence. Entertainment outlet TMZ also reported his death, referencing sources who indicated emergency responders were called for a cardiac arrest incident at his home.
Standing at an imposing 6 feet 7 inches, Hogan was instantly recognisable with his trademark blond handlebar moustache and bandana. His charismatic all-American persona and dynamic performances in the ring revolutionised professional wrestling, drawing massive television audiences and cementing the sport’s status as a major force in global entertainment.
Hogan — real name Terry Bollea — first competed in 1979 in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now known as WWE) but became a mainstay and fan favorite in the mid-1980s alongside others like Andre the Giant and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper.
His brand of “Hulkamania” transferred to the small and big screen, with roles in films such as “Rocky III,” “No Holds Barred” and TV’s “Baywatch.”
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He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.
“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,” World Wrestling Entertainment said on social media.
“WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Despite his towering fame, Hulk Hogan’s career faced significant turbulence over the years. More than a decade ago, he became embroiled in scandal after a private video was leaked online, attracting widespread media scrutiny. His reputation took a further hit a few years later when recordings emerged of him using racial slurs directed at Black Americans.
The fallout from those remarks led to his dismissal from WWE in 2015. Hogan later issued a public apology, paving the way for his reinstatement into the WWE Hall of Fame.
In his later years, Hogan became a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump. He made headlines at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he dramatically tore off his shirt on stage to reveal a tank top emblazoned with the names Trump and Vance, celebrating the party’s formal nomination of its presidential ticket.