The WWE ring will never feel the same again. The wrestling legend Hulk Hogan died of a heart attack on Thursday morning, 24 July 2025.
Hogan’s family shared the heartbreaking news on social media, saying, “With a heavy heart and deep sadness, we confirm the loss of a legend.”
Honestly, this one hits hard. If you grew up watching WWE as I did, you know exactly what I mean. That red and yellow gear, the bandanas, the way “Real American” blasted through the speakers. He was the hero of our childhood.
The Man Behind the Muscle
Did you know Hulk Hogan’s real name was Terry Gene Bollea? According to Wikipedia, he was born in August 1953. He started wrestling in 1977, but after 1980, he was recognized. I mean, that’s when Hulkamania took over. His iconic lines like, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” were a total vibe.
Hogan transformed wrestling from a niche into a global phenomenon. He was the top star at the first WrestleMania organized in 1985. Hogan was the main star of eight WrestleMania events. His most recognizable feat was during WrestleMania III when he lifted André the Giant, who is two times his size.
He became a 12-time world champion and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 under his solo championship career and in 2020 as a member of the nWo (New World Order) inner-ring team.
Outside the Wrestling Ring
Hogan was also a pop culture star. He was featured in various films such as Rocky III, Mr. Nanny, and Suburban Commando. He appeared on Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show, and his reality television show, Hogan Knows Best.
Hogan shared a friendship with Donald Trump for over 40 years, starting with the WrestleMania events held at Trump’s hotel in the 1980s. In 2024, Hogan gave a bold speech at the Republican Convention, called Trump a “real American hero,” and ripped off his shirt to reveal a Trump Vance t-shirt.
Life of Highs and Lows
Hogan was involved in some major controversies, including a federal steroid trial in 1994, where he admitted using steroids. After the incident, he was fired by the WWE in 2007 and temporarily removed from the Hall of Fame, though later, he was reinstated.
Hogan’s personal life was also filled with troubles. He married three times. In recent years, he stopped talking to his daughter, Brooke, and the reason is still unknown.
Health Struggles and Sudden Loss
Recently, Hogan’s health has been deteriorating day by day. He had more than 25 surgeries, including back, hip, knee, shoulder, and, most recently, a neck procedure in May 2025. Weeks before his death, there were rumors that Hogan was in a coma or very sick.
But later, his current wife, Sky Daily, and friend Jimmy Hart denied those rumors, saying he was recovering and was in good health.
Then came the shock.
Hogan had a heart attack while he was at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Paramedics rushed him to Morton Plant Hospital, but sadly, he was declared dead. Police found no foul play, but the case is still being investigated.
Remembering a Giant
Tributes came in from all over the world. WWE called him the “most iconic superstar of all time.” The Rock shared a touching message, calling Hogan his childhood hero. Donald Trump said he was “a real American and a true patriot.”
Rest in peace, Hulk Hogan. Thank you for the memories. Hulkamania will live on forever.