We begin with the passing of a true American icon, a man whose charisma, strength, and unmistakable voice helped shape an entire era of entertainment. Wrestling Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71.
Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away Thursday morning in Florida after suffering a cardiac arrest. According to TMZ Sports, he was rushed to the hospital but did not survive. The wrestling legend leaves behind a towering legacy that defined a generation of sports entertainment fans.
The man behind Hulkamania first rose to superstardom in the 1980s, electrifying crowds and becoming the face of what would evolve into World Wrestling Entertainment. His unforgettable 1987 showdown against Andre the Giant in which Hogan lifted the 520-pound titan became known as the bodyslam heard around the world.
Outside the ring, Hogan made headlines just last year with a fiery appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he broke his political silence to endorse former President Donald Trump following the attempted assassination in Pennsylvania. Hogan declared: ‘Let Trumpmania run wild, brother!’ a phrase that echoed his wrestling persona.
In an emotional interview with Fox News, Hogan reflected on Trump’s resilience: “When I saw him stand up, blood on his face, fist in the air, I realized that’s what America needs.”
Tributes poured in from across the nation. Vice President J.D. Vance remembered Hogan as “one of the first people I ever truly admired.” Deputy Communications Director Kaelan Dorr simply wrote: “Today, we are all Hulkamaniacs.”
World Wrestling Entertainment issued a heartfelt statement, calling Hogan ‘one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures’ and crediting him with helping propel the organization to global fame during its golden age. The WWE extended condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and millions of fans worldwide.
Hogan is survived by his children, Nick and Brooke, from his marriage to Linda Claridge, and his wife Sky Daily. A larger-than-life presence both inside the ring and out, Hogan’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of wrestlers, fans, and believers in the power of perseverance.
Terry ‘Hulk Hogan’ Bollea, 1953–2025 “Rest in peace, Brother.”
Reporting by Henry Nichols.
