Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, has died at 71 following a cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home, TMZ Sports confirmed.
Paramedics were dispatched early Thursday morning, where responders performed chest compressions before transporting him to a nearby hospital. Clearwater Police reported that Hogan was pronounced dead at 11:17 AM, with no signs of foul play.
Hogan’s wife, Sky, whom he married in September 2023, had recently denied rumors of his failing health, insisting his heart was “strong” as he recovered from a May neck surgery.
Hulk Hogan
The Birth of Hulkamania
Hogan became a global icon by revolutionizing professional wrestling, transforming it from a niche sport into family entertainment. After defeating the Iron Sheik in 1984 for the World Heavyweight Championship, “Hulkamania” swept the globe. His signature bandana, handlebar mustache, and electrifying persona drew legions of fans across generations.
In 1996, Hogan shocked the wrestling world by turning heel, forming the New World Order (NWO) and becoming Hollywood Hulk Hogan, a move that reignited wrestling’s popularity.
Iconic Moments and WWE Legacy
Throughout his storied career, Hogan delivered legendary performances, including bouts against Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson at WrestleMania X8.
He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice — first in 2005, and again in 2020 as part of the NWO, despite a 2015 scandal over leaked racist remarks that briefly tarnished his career.
WWE issued a statement: “One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends condolences to his family, friends, and fans.”
Beyond the Ring
Outside wrestling, Hogan made his Hollywood debut in Rocky III (1982) as Thunderlips, later starring in films such as No Holds Barred, Mr. Nanny, and Suburban Commando. His VH1 reality series Hogan Knows Best offered fans a glimpse into his family life.
Despite enduring dozens of surgeries from years of wrestling, Hogan remained larger than life, famously stating he had “no original body parts left.”
His passing marks the end of an era for wrestling and pop culture, leaving behind a legacy that transcends generations.
In other news – Tirelo Kale speaks on why she is not married to Mpumelelo Mseleku
Tirelo Kale has shed light on why she has not tied the knot with Musa Mseleku’s son Mpumelelo. The reality TV star, who is Mpumelelo’s first girlfriend and has a son with him, was recently questioned by social media users after Mpumelelo paid lobola for his second partner.
During a recent Instagram live, Tirelo revealed her parents did not approve of her getting married while she was still in school and had nothing to show for herself. Read More
