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Wrestling icon Terry Bollea, globally known as Hulk Hogan, has died at the age of 71 following a cardiac arrest, according to the Clearwater Police Department in Florida.
Authorities said Hogan was rushed to Morton Plant Hospital after emergency services responded to a call just before 10 a.m. on Thursday. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) confirmed the sad news in a statement:
“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. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Born in 1953, Hogan rose to superstardom in the 1980s, becoming a larger-than-life figure in professional wrestling with his signature blonde moustache, bandana, yellow gear, and muscle-bound charisma.
He was instrumental in elevating WWE (then WWF) into a global entertainment powerhouse.
Throughout his career, Hogan won six WWE championships and headlined eight of the first nine WrestleMania events, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the sport’s history.
Outside the ring, Hogan expanded into acting and later reality TV, further cementing his status as a mainstream celebrity.
However, his career was not without controversy.
In 2015, Hogan was embroiled in a racism scandal, leading to WWE terminating his contract.
He was later reinstated in 2018 and returned to the WWE Hall of Fame, a testament to his lasting impact on the sport.
Wrestling legend and longtime friend Ric Flair paid an emotional tribute to Hogan, posting on X:
“Absolutely shocked. An incredible athlete, talent, friend and father. Our friendship has meant the world to me.”
Hulk Hogan’s death marks the end of an era for millions of fans who grew up watching his unmatched showmanship and iconic catchphrases.
He leaves behind a towering legacy in the world of sports entertainment.
