By: Kwame Bediako
Legendary WWE icon Hulk Hogan, who helped bring professional wrestling into mainstream pop culture, has passed away at age 71 on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, died of cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida, according to TMZ. Emergency services were dispatched to his residence following reports of a cardiac event.
Hogan was well-known for his larger-than-life persona during the 1980s, where he popularized “Hulkamania” and became a household name. He encouraged fans to “say their prayers and take their vitamins,” capturing the hearts of millions. His influence extended into the 1990s with his shift to rival promotion WCW and his surprising role as the villainous leader of the New World Order faction, both of which were cultural phenomena.
In recent years, Hogan faced numerous health challenges due to the physical toll of his wrestling career. He openly discussed having undergone over 25 surgeries in the past decade, including 10 back surgeries and replacements of both knees and hips. Despite these struggles, Hogan remained a resilient figure, candid about his medical history in interviews such as on Jake Paul’s IMPAULSIVE podcast in 2024.
Rumors about Hogan’s declining health had circulated in recent months. He had undergone a successful neck surgery just a month before his death, and while there were false reports claiming he was on his deathbed, his representatives had assured the public that he was stable and recovering. Nonetheless, the long-standing wear and tear from years in the ring ultimately affected his well-being.
Hulk Hogan’s death marks the loss of one of professional wrestling’s most influential and recognizable stars. His impact not only helped transform WWE into a global entertainment powerhouse but also left an indelible mark on pop culture at large. Hogan’s legacy will be remembered by fans and fellow wrestlers worldwide as the man who defined an era in sports entertainment.
