Hulk Hogan, Wrestling Icon, Passes Away at 71
Clearwater, Fla. — Hulk Hogan, the legendary figure in professional wrestling and a cultural icon, passed away on Thursday at the age of 71. Known for his trademark mustache and colorful bandanas, Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, played a pivotal role in elevating wrestling into a major entertainment industry.
Local authorities reported that medics arrived at Hogan’s home in Clearwater in response to a cardiac arrest call. He was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital shortly after. Officials stated there were no indications of foul play.
Hogan was a household name in the wrestling world, mainly during the 1980s and 1990s. He became the face of WWE, starring in its inaugural WrestleMania event in 1985 and going on to face legends like Andre the Giant and The Rock. His six WWE championships are a testament to his enduring popularity.
However, Hogan’s life was not without controversies. In 2015, WWE distanced itself from him after unauthorized recordings surfaced in which he used racial slurs. He later apologized for those remarks, acknowledging their inappropriateness.
Despite the challenges, Hogan was reinstated into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018, recognizing his impact on wrestling. His persona, often characterized by patriotic motifs and an energetic demeanor, resonated deeply with fans. “Hulkamania” became a cultural phenomenon, drawing crowds that cheered as he electrified arenas across the country.
In his later years, Hogan ventured into politics, openly supporting Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign. At a Republican National Convention event, he passionately merged his wrestling enthusiasm with Trump’s rhetoric, invigorating the crowd with calls to “Let Trumpamania run wild!”
In a heartfelt tribute, Trump referred to Hogan as “a great friend” and praised his strong, yet kind nature. Hogan’s connection to his fans was evident, as many took to social media to express their admiration and remembrance of the wrestling star.
Hogan also planned to take on a new role as commissioner for the Real American Freestyle organization, emphasizing that he wanted to guide young talents in wrestling, aiming to shape the future of the sport.
Born in Georgia but spending much of his life in Florida, Hogan’s journey into wrestling began when he would skip school to watch matches in Tampa. His resilience was evident even in his early years, as he overcame a broken leg during training. “The rest is history,” Hogan would often recall, reflecting on his determination to succeed.
Hogan’s influence extended beyond the ring to movies and reality television, showcasing his charismatic personality to a broader audience. He will be remembered not only for his wrestling accomplishments but also for his ability to connect with people and inspire generations.
As friends and fans mourn his passing, they recall Hogan as a genuine and approachable figure, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished in the hearts of many.
