Hulk Hogan dead at 71 after cardiac arrest at Florida home

July 24, 2025 – 8:40 PM

Hulk Hogan, one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling, has died at the age of 71. Emergency crews responded to a cardiac arrest call at his Clearwater, Florida home Thursday morning. He was transported to a local hospital and pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

His death marks the loss of a sports and entertainment pioneer whose influence stretched far beyond the wrestling ring.

What happened to Hulk Hogan

According to reports from law enforcement and TMZ Sports, paramedics and police responded to Hogan’s residence around 9:51 AM Thursday. He was found unresponsive and rushed to a hospital, where doctors confirmed his death.

The legendary wrestler—born Terry Gene Bollea—was said to have suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Clearwater Fire & Rescue handled the emergency response. Further details may be released during an upcoming press conference.

Hogan’s health in recent months

Leading up to his death, Hogan faced ongoing health concerns. In May, he underwent neck surgery, which sparked public speculation about his condition. Rumors in June falsely claimed he was in a coma, but his wife, Sky Daily Hogan, denied the reports, assuring fans that his heart was “strong.”

Despite his health challenges, Hogan remained active. He made a public appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, energizing the crowd with his trademark presence.

He was also preparing to launch a new amateur wrestling league, Real American Freestyle, set to debut on Fox Nation on August 30.

Hulkamania and the birth of a wrestling superstar

Hulk Hogan became a household name in 1984 after defeating The Iron Sheik to win the World Heavyweight Championship. That victory launched “Hulkamania,” a phenomenon that turned professional wrestling into a global sensation.

With his massive frame, handlebar mustache, and red-and-yellow gear, Hogan was the face of WWE’s golden era. He helped introduce wrestling to millions of new fans and made it a staple of pop culture throughout the 1980s and beyond.

Reinvention and wrestling legacy

Hogan’s career took a dramatic turn in 1996 when he joined the New World Order (NWO) alongside Kevin Nash and Scott Hall. This “heel” turn—wrestling slang for becoming a villain—marked the birth of “Hollywood Hogan” and helped reinvigorate the sport during the Monday Night Wars era.

Some of his most legendary matches include:

• Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III
• Hogan vs. The Rock at WrestleMania X8
• Iconic feuds with Macho Man Randy Savage, The Ultimate Warrior, and Ric Flair

Scandal, legal battle, and redemption

Hogan’s legacy was temporarily clouded by scandal in 2015 after leaked footage revealed him making racist remarks. He was removed from the WWE Hall of Fame and sued Gawker Media for invasion of privacy.

Hogan ultimately won the lawsuit, receiving a large settlement. WWE later re-inducted him into the Hall of Fame in 2020 as a member of the NWO, signaling his reinstatement and lasting influence on wrestling culture.

Hollywood stardom and family life

Outside the ring, Hogan made a name for himself in entertainment. His acting debut came in 1982’s Rocky III as Thunderlips. He followed that with roles in films like:

• No Holds Barred
• Suburban Commando
• Mr. Nanny

He also starred in the VH1 reality series Hogan Knows Best, which offered fans a glimpse into his life with then-wife Linda, son Nick, and daughter Brooke.

Wrestling through pain and perseverance

Years of wrestling took a physical toll on Hogan. In a 2018 interview, he revealed he had undergone more than a dozen surgeries and “didn’t have any original body parts left.”

Despite the pain, he remained passionate about the sport and committed to giving back. Through his amateur wrestling league, he aimed to mentor a new generation of athletes.

WWE and fans honor his legacy

In a statement, WWE described Hogan as “one of the most recognizable figures in pop culture and professional wrestling.”

“Hogan’s impact on our sport and our brand is immeasurable. We extend our condolences to his family, friends, and millions of fans,” the organization said.

Tributes have flooded social media from fellow wrestlers, fans, and celebrities. Many remember him not only as a performer, but as a symbol of perseverance and charisma.

Final thoughts

Hulk Hogan’s legacy spans generations. He was more than a wrestler—he was a cultural icon who changed the face of entertainment forever. From his early days as a hero in red and yellow to his reinvention as a wrestling rebel, Hogan captivated audiences and left an indelible mark on sports history.

His passing is a profound loss for fans around the world, but his legend will live on in every body slam, every crowd chant, and every child who believed in the power of Hulkamania.

What’s your favorite Hulk Hogan moment? Share it in the comments and explore our tribute to wrestling legends.