Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71 WWE Legend Dies of Cardiac Arrest

It’s a sad day for wrestling fans around the world. Hulk Hogan passes away at 71, marking the end of an era that changed the face of professional wrestling forever. Known for his electrifying charisma, iconic mustache, and unmatched influence in the wrestling ring, Hogan was more than just a WWE superstar—he was a global phenomenon.

WWE Confirms Hulk Hogan’s Death

World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) officially confirmed the passing of Hulk Hogan, real name Terry Bollea, on Thursday, July 24. In a heartfelt statement, WWE said:

“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.”

Police and emergency services responded to a cardiac arrest call at Hogan’s Clearwater, Florida, residence early in the morning. According to TMZ Sports, medics arrived at the scene and stretchered Hogan into an ambulance. He was taken to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Heart Issues Denied Before Death

Just weeks before this tragic event, Hogan’s wife Sky Daily had dismissed rumors circulating online, stating that Hogan was not in a coma and that his heart was “strong” despite recent surgeries.

The Rise of a Wrestling Icon

Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, became one of the most recognizable faces in sports entertainment. His career took off in 1983 when he rejoined Vince McMahon’s World Wrestling Federation (then WWF). That was the birth of “Hulkamania.”

Key Moments in Hogan’s Career:

• 1984: Won his first WWF Championship by defeating The Iron Sheik
• 1985: Headlined the inaugural WrestleMania with Mr. T
• WrestleMania III: Slammed Andre the Giant in front of 93,000 fans—a moment known as “the bodyslam heard around the world”
• Headlined 8 of the first 9 WrestleMania events
• 6-time WWE Champion
• Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005

Moving to WCW and Forming nWo

In 1994, Hogan shocked fans by joining World Championship Wrestling (WCW). The biggest twist came in 1996 when he turned heel (villain) and formed the New World Order (nWo) alongside Scott Hall and Kevin Nash. This move revitalized his career and led WCW to dominate WWE in TV ratings during the Monday Night Wars.

Return to WWE and Later Years

After WWE acquired WCW, Hogan returned in the early 2000s with his “Hollywood” persona. One of his most iconic matches post-return was against The Rock at WrestleMania 18 in 2002. He also had appearances in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) and continued to draw nostalgic crowds wherever he went.

Outside the Ring

Apart from wrestling, Hogan tried his hand at acting and reality television. His credits include movies like Mr. Nanny, Suburban Commando, and the reality show Hogan Knows Best. Hogan’s influence extended well beyond wrestling, making him a household name across generations.

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The Legal Battle with Gawker

In 2016, Hogan made headlines for winning a major privacy lawsuit against Gawker Media. A Florida jury awarded him $115 million in damages over a leaked sex tape, with an additional $25 million in punitive damages. The victory was seen as a significant case for digital privacy rights.

A Legacy That Lives On

Whether you knew him as the All-American hero of the 1980s or the rebellious “Hollywood” heel of the 1990s, Hogan’s impact is undeniable. His entrance song “Real American”, his powerful slogans like “Train, say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and believe in yourself,” and his unforgettable in-ring moments have left a permanent mark on professional wrestling.

As Hulk Hogan passes away at 71, he leaves behind a legacy that shaped not just the wrestling industry, but the entertainment world at large.

Summary of Hulk Hogan’s Legacy:

• Full Name: Terry Gene Bollea
• Birthdate: August 11, 1953
• Died: July 24, 2025 (aged 71)
• Cause of Death: Cardiac Arrest
• Major Promotions: WWE, WCW, TNA
• Championships: 6-time WWE Champion
• Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2005
• Notable Feuds: Andre the Giant, Randy Savage, The Rock, Vince McMahon
• Other Ventures: Films, TV, Reality Shows, Legal Advocate

Rest in Peace, Hulk Hogan. The ring will never be the same without you.