The wrestling world is reeling from the loss of a true legend, as Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, passed away at the age of 71. The iconic wrestler died on July 24, 2025, at his home in Clearwater, Florida, due to cardiac arrest. Medics were dispatched to the 71-year-old WWElegend’s Clearwater, Florida home early Thursday morning, with operators stating it was regarding a “cardiac arrest.” Police cars and EMTs were parked outside Hogan’s home, and the icon was carried on a stretcher and into an ambulance, but despite their efforts, he could not be saved. His death has left fans and peers heartbroken, marking the end of an era for the man who made “Hulkamania” a global phenomenon.
Hulk Hogan had faced significant health challenges in recent years, which likely contributed to his passing. Just a few weeks ago, his wife, Sky Daily, denied rumors he was in a coma, stating his heart was “strong” as he recovered from surgeries. We broke the story last month there were rumblings Hogan was on his “deathbed,” but we were told at the time he was just dealing with the symptoms of a neck procedure he underwent in May. Additionally, he had major heart surgery weeks before June 2025, aimed at addressing ongoing heart issues. Over the past decade, Hogan endured more than 20 surgeries on his back, knees, hips, and face, reflecting the physical toll of his wrestling career. In 2013, he filed a lawsuit claiming six unnecessary spinal operations worsened his condition, leading to a spinal fusion surgery in 2010. These health struggles underscored the sacrifices he made for his craft.
Born August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan came to prominence in the 1980s as the face of the World Wrestling Federation (present WWE). His larger-than-life persona with his distinct blond mustache, red and yellow bandanas, and “24-inch pythons” made professional wrestling a global phenomenon. Hogan topped nine out of ten WrestleMania mainstays with his August 1988 fight with Andre the Giant for WrestleMania III drawing a record 33 million viewers. He won 12 world titles with a combined six WWF/WWE titles and WCW World Heavyweight titles for a place as one of all-time-greatest professional wrestlers. His New World Order (nWo) character solidified his legacy for good with a 2020 WWE Hall of Fame double induction.
Beyond wrestling, Hogan was a pop culture icon. He starred in films like Rocky III and Mr. Nanny, and his reality show Hogan Knows Best gave fans a glimpse into his family life. His catchphrases, like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” became part of the cultural lexicon, and he graced the covers of magazines like Sports Illustrated and People. Hogan’s influence extended to charity, as he was the most requested celebrity by the Make-A-Wish Foundation in the 1980s, bringing joy to countless children.
In recent months, Hogan embraced a deeply personal milestone. Just a few months before his passing, he and his wife, Sky Daily, were baptized together, marking a significant spiritual moment in his life. Reflecting on the experience, Hogan shared,
“Total surrender and dedication to Jesus is the greatest day of my life. No worries, no hate, no judgment… only love.”
This heartfelt statement captured his newfound peace and faith, offering a glimpse into the man behind the larger-than-life persona.
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He leaves behind his wife of 2023, Sky Daily, and his former wife Linda Claridge’s children, Brooke and Nick. He also leaves behind his grandkids, Oliver and Molly. Despite his life being scandalous at times, including professional and personal rivalry, colleagues and fans mourn a man who shaped an industry. Tweets reflect expressions of grief, with one fan writing about him.
“the hero we needed and the icon we loved,”
and another praising his unmatched charisma and mic skills.
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Hulk Hogan’s legacy is one of resilience, showmanship, and an undeniable impact on wrestling and pop culture. His battles in the ring and his larger-than-life presence inspired generations.
